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NYSC DG Collaborates with Security Agencies to Rescue Kidnapped Corps Members in Zamfara

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed, is working closely with the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the military brigade to secure the release of eight corps members who were abducted in Zamfara State. The NYSC Director of Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, confirmed this development during a telephone interview on Wednesday.

Megwa stated, “As I speak to you, the NYSC DG is in Zamfara state, and the NYSC is currently working with the police, the military brigade, and the DSS to release the eight corps members that were kidnapped in Zamfara.”

The incident occurred when gunmen seized eight NYSC members traveling from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to Sokoto State. They were en route to Zamfara State to participate in their mandatory national service. Although the exact circumstances remain undisclosed, three of the 11 kidnapped members managed to escape during the attack.

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The transport company responsible for the bus confirmed the incident, revealing that the abducted corps members were removed from the bus and taken into the bush. The police later recovered the bus. The bus driver tragically lost his life during the attack.

Separately, another NYSC member, Miss Esther Akande, who had been kidnapped on August 16 while en route to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Nasarawa State, was released on August 19. According to Esther, a ransom of N1 million was paid for her release. Initially, the kidnappers demanded N300 million, which was later reduced to N100 million and finally settled at N1 million following negotiations.

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Esther’s father, Mr. Akande, denied the payment of ransom despite his daughter’s account. A family source confirmed that the victim’s release was indeed secured through a ransom payment. According to the source, efforts from the victim’s school and various contributors helped raise over half of the ransom.

In response to the discrepancies, Eddy Megwa, NYSC Director of Press and Public Relations, mentioned that the important aspect was the victim’s safe release and her current presence at the orientation camp. Megwa also stated that the NYSC was not aware of any ransom payment.

Meanwhile, the security agencies continue their collaborative efforts to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped NYSC members in Zamfara State.

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