Corps Member Accused of Scholarship Scam – NSCDC

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has clarified that the money recovered from a serving corps member, identified as Phillip, was not a bribe but funds allegedly collected fraudulently from parents under a scholarship scam.

According to the agency, preliminary investigations revealed that Phillip allegedly collected approximately ₦1.3 million from several parents under the pretence of registering their children for a Cambridge University scholarship programme.

Investigators allege that the suspect cloned multiple Cambridge University email addresses and sent fabricated confirmation messages to parents. He is also accused of collecting additional funds for extra lessons and study materials in preparation for the supposed scholarship examination.

However, contrary to the NSCDC’s earlier claim that Phillip was a fake corps member, findings have shown that his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) call-up number – NYSC/ATBU/2025/245322 – is genuine. NYSC officials verified the number and confirmed it was not forged.

A source familiar with the matter disclosed that Phillip was labelled a fake corps member after he allegedly refused to present his identification card to NSCDC officials during the early stage of his detention.

“He refused to allow them see his ID from day one. That gave the momentum to pronounce him a fake corper,” the source said.

The source further alleged that Phillip has sustained an injury to his left eye, reportedly resulting from an assault by the investigating police officer. “Now he can’t see with his left eye anymore as a result of assault by the IPO,” the source added.

Phillip has now spent over 70 days in detention, raising concerns about his health and the circumstances surrounding his continued custody by the NSCDC.