No ransom was paid to secure the release of prospective corps members abducted in Zamfara on their way to their orientation camp in Sokoto state for their primary assignment, management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has clarified.
The clarification became necessary in order to correct erroneous reports and claims going on with regard to the kidnap incident.
A statement signed by NYSC’s director of press, and public relations, Eddy Megwa, said since the release of some of the abducted corps members, management has been shouldering the responsibility of their medical bills where they are recuperating.
It said “management and security agents have succeeded in securing the release of four (4) out of the eight (8) kidnapped prospective corps members without paying any amount of money and still working relentlessly towards securing the release of the remaining prospective corps members in the hands of the kidnappers.”
It said management was already aware of different account numbers and names currently being circulated in the public, calling for financial donations towards paying ransom for the release of the prospective corps members.
The Corps therefore cautioned parents and family members of the kidnapped prospective corps members, Akwa Ibom, Zamfara state governments or anybody not to fall prey to the unscrupulous elements taking undue advantage of the situation to defraud members of the public by calling for donation towards the release of the kidnapped prospective corps members.
“The National Youth Service Corps management is ever committed towards the welfare and security of the corps members and will continue to intensify synergy with security agencies towards the safety of the corps members,” the statement assured.
