The Cross River State government has banned the use of National Cadet Corps to train youths in secondary schools, due to the alleged criminal activities of some of the cadet members.

In a statement issued over the weekend by the State Security Adviser, Mr. Rekpene Bassey, the government said that the Nigerian Army had raised the alarm that the cadets had resorted to the use of military apparels, which are part of their dress code, to engage in criminal activities.

It added that the ban had become imperative, following the present security situation in the country, as there was the possibility of the cadets being recruited by criminal elements for unwholesome activities.

The statement read, “It has come to the notice of the Nigerian Army that the National Cadet Corps, whose personnel are deployed in secondary schools for the purpose of training youths in minor regimental activities to enhance their discipline and patriotism, have become involved in acts detrimental to national security.

“The cadets have resorted to using military apparels which are part of their dress code to engage in criminal activities. Considering the current precarious security situation in the country and the possibility that these cadets could be recruited by criminal elements for unwholesome activities that threaten the security of the state, the Army Headquarters have decided to ban all forms of military training in the secondary schools.

“The use of uniforms similar to that of the military in whatever guise is also prohibited. The principals of affected schools are by this announcement required to ensure the retrieval of military apparels hitherto used by the cadets.”

The management of the Cross River Secondary Education Board, is said to have been directed by the state governor, to cooperate with the Nigerian Army in this regard, as the decision was in the overall national security interest.