In the wake of an alarming surge in kidnappings and killings across the nation, the Human Rights and Justice Group International has called for the suspension of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), urging the Federal Government to prioritize the safety of Nigerian Youths.
The civil society organization voiced its concerns as the country grapples with a rising wave of violence, including kidnappings, terrorist attacks, and various criminal activities.
Citing the perilous environment, the group emphasized the need for immediate action to protect the lives of young citizens enrolled in the mandatory national service programme.
The urgency of the plea is underscored by the recent incidents, such as the abduction of 15 NYSC members at a motor park in Iseke, Ihiala local government area of Anambra state last year, stating that although the victims were late rescued by the State Police Command, yet, the incident exposed the vulnerability of NYSC participants to criminal elements.
Further illustrating the gravity of the situation, in August of 2023, gunmen seized eight graduates from Akwa Ibom State tertiary institution who were enroute to Sokoto State for their mandatory national service.
The abduction occurred along a highway in Zamfara, raising concerns about the safety of young individuals compelled to travel for the programme.
In another tragic incident in Sagwari community, Abuja on January 7, 2024, eleven residents, including a mother, her four children and a hotel receptionist fell victim to kidnappers. The dire consequences of these criminal acts were starkly evident when Talatu Salihu, a final year student of Bayero University, Kano, was killed by terrorists because her family could not meet up with the demanded ransom.
The perpetrators further issued threats to harm her two siblings if the payment was not made.
Expressing grave concerns over the deteriorating security situation, Prince Nze, the Executive Director, HRJGI, said the FG needs to know that the nation is no longer safe and the continued deployment of youths for the NYSC scheme is opening their lives to jeopardy.
Nze thus urged the federal government to take immediate measure to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigeria’s youths.
