Eight graduates from Akwa Ibom State who were on AKTC bus en route to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Sokoto State remain captive four months after being abducted by gunmen on August 17.
The victims’ families have criticized both the NYSC authorities and security agencies, alleging insufficient efforts to secure the release of their children.
In September, the parents staged a protest in Akwa Ibom State, highlighting the financial burden they faced, having spent over N13 million in attempts to secure their children’s release. The kidnappers, who initially demanded a ransom of N10 million for each abductee, have left families unable to meet the exorbitant sum. Despite assurances from security agents, none of the victims has been freed as of December 4, 2023.
Nigerians have taken to social media to lament the government and security agencies’ perceived failure in rescuing the young graduates. Users emphasize the brutality and ongoing challenges faced by the captives, condemning the collective societal indifference to their plight.
One social media user, @Isidore0001, highlighted the heartbreaking nature of the incident and accused the government, NYSC, and the nation at large of failing these youths.
@eunice30116 shared a personal connection, revealing that her brother remains captive, expressing concern about her mother’s ability to afford the demanded ransom given her occupation as a seller of oranges and akara.
Despite attempts to seek information, the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, has not responded to inquiries at the time of filing this report.
Some Nigerians are calling for the scrapping of the NYSC scheme, while others suggest allowing individuals to serve in their respective geopolitical zones or states.
IMAGE: Facebook: @Da Whoknows Monday
