The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) management has officially dismissed circulating reports and a pamphlet online which allegedly advises corps members to pay ransom if abducted during the service year.The pamphlet, which went viral across social media platforms, purportedly contains instructions on how corps members should behave if kidnapped, including an alarming direction to “prepare ransom” and “comply with demands” to secure their release. However, in a firm statement, the NYSC has clarified that the pamphlet is not an official publication from the scheme, describing it as “fake, unauthorized, and misleading.”
According to the NYSC spokesperson, “The Scheme has not issued any pamphlet or safety guide that instructs corps members to pay ransom in the event of an abduction. The publication circulating online is a forgery created with the intent to misinform and cause panic.”
The management emphasized its commitment to the welfare and safety of corps members and reiterated that all official communication will only be disseminated through verified NYSC channels.On the subject of kidnapping and security, the NYSC stressed: “We do not, and will never endorse payment of ransom to kidnappers. Our security protocols encourage corps members to immediately report any security threats or incidents to the appropriate authorities for prompt action.”
The Scheme further urged the public to disregard the pamphlet and avoid sharing unverified information that could potentially jeopardize the safety of corps members.Security remains a top priority for the NYSC, which has embarked on multiple collaborations with security agencies across the federation to safeguard corps members serving in various parts of the country.The NYSC also called on corps members, parents, and guardians to stay alert and rely solely on official NYSC platforms for information and guidance.
This development comes amidst increasing concerns over the security challenges faced by corps members nationwide, with kidnappings reportedly on the rise in some regions.
The NYSC’s clear refutation of the ransom pamphlet aims to quell growing anxiety among service members and restore confidence in the scheme’s safety measures.This report preserves all key quotations and clarifies the NYSC’s position, providing contextual background to the ongoing situation.
