Olabode condemns abduction of NYSC members in Kogi, hails rescue of 11

 

Public Affairs Analyst, Mr. Omoyele Olabode, yesterday condemned the abduction of National Youth Service Corps members returning from Bayelsa State to Abuja after they were attacked along Ofu Local Govt, Kogi State highway, with 11 of them rescued.

 

Olabode described the attack as a “shameful assault on Nigeria’s future” and called on security agencies to intensify operations along the Abuja-Lokoja-Okene corridor to guarantee the safe return of those still in captivity.

 

In a statement made available to newsmen, Olabode said the corps members were returning from their service year in Bayelsa when gunmen intercepted their vehicle in Kogi.

 

“We received with shock and anger the news of the abduction of our young compatriots who just completed national service,” he said. “These are Nigerians who gave a year of their lives to serve the nation. To have them kidnapped on their way home is wicked and unacceptable.”

 

He commended security operatives and local vigilantes for the rescue of 11 of the corps members, but urged the Federal Government and Kogi State Government to go beyond rescue operations.

 

“The rescue of 11 is a relief, and we thank God and the gallant officers involved. But rescue without arrest and prosecution emboldens the kidnappers. Government must hunt down these criminals and dismantle their camps in Kogi forests,” Olabode added.

 

The Public Affairs Analyst also called on the NYSC management to review the travel arrangements for corps members at the end of service, including coordinated movement and security escorts on high-risk routes.

 

He further appealed to families of the abducted youths to remain calm, assuring them that Nigerians stand with them in demanding their immediate and safe release.

 

Kogi State has in recent months recorded a spike in highway kidnappings, particularly around the border areas linking the North Central to the South-South.

 

The police are yet to release an official casualty figure or confirm how many corps members remain missing.