By Muhammadu Sabiu
In a joint operation, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Director General, Brig. Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed, has coordinated efforts with the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and a military brigade to ensure the safe return of eight corps members who were abducted in Zamfara State.
The incident occurred on Saturday when gunmen intercepted an AKTC bus travelling from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to Sokoto State.
The corps members were en route to Zamfara State to participate in the mandatory national service.
The NYSC’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, confirmed the collaborative initiative during a telephone interview on Wednesday.
According to Megwa, Brig. Gen. Ahmed is presently in Zamfara State overseeing the coordinated operation with security agencies to secure the safe release of the kidnapped corps members.
Although conflicting reports have surfaced regarding the payment of ransom, a source from the transport company confirmed the abduction and disclosed that while the assailants took eight corps members into the bush, three managed to escape during the attack.
The abducted individuals were eventually released after reportedly being held for four days.
One of the released victims, identified as Esther, recounted her ordeal, revealing that her captors initially demanded N300 million as ransom, which was later reduced to N100 million and eventually settled at N1 million following negotiations.
The exchange took place in Abaji, with Esther’s father delivering the payment.
Esther’s family and friends rallied to contribute to the ransom amount, facilitated by the higher institution she graduated from, Adeyemi College of Education.
The NYSC Director of Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, emphasised that the paramount concern was the safe release of the abductees and denied any official knowledge of ransom payments.
Similarly, Esther’s father denied paying a ransom, aligning with the NYSC’s stance.
Despite the discrepancies, it’s evident that collaborative efforts between the NYSC and security agencies played a pivotal role in the safe return of the kidnapped corps members.
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