The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has uncovered an illegal institution operating from a three-bedroom apartment in Lagos State, leading to the rescue of 106 individuals believed to have been enrolled under false academic promises.
According to the NSCDC, the operation followed credible intelligence suggesting that the premises was being used as an unauthorized educational centre claiming to offer university-level programmes and award academic qualifications without the necessary legal approvals.
Security operatives raided the location and found scores of young people receiving lectures and participating in activities designed to create the impression of a legitimate higher institution. Preliminary findings indicated that many of those present had paid various sums of money in the hope of obtaining recognized academic certificates and improving their educational prospects.
The rescued individuals were taken into protective custody, where officials began documenting their identities and gathering statements to determine the extent of their involvement and whether they were victims of fraud or active participants in the illegal operation.
Several suspects believed to be responsible for establishing and managing the unauthorized institution were apprehended during the operation. Investigators are examining documents, electronic devices, financial records, and other materials recovered from the premises to establish the full scope of the scheme and identify additional persons connected to it.
The NSCDC stated that the suspects would face prosecution if investigations confirm violations of relevant laws governing education, fraud, and related offences. The agency also disclosed that efforts are ongoing to identify other locations that may be operating similar illegal centres.
The corps urged prospective students and parents to verify the accreditation status of any institution before seeking admission or making tuition payments. It advised members of the public to obtain information from the appropriate regulatory authorities to avoid falling victim to fraudulent educational schemes.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant government institutions and security agencies to combat illegal educational operations, protect citizens from exploitation, and preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s education system.