The National Youth Service Corps has dismissed circulating reports alleging that it operates a “ransom clause” or deliberately exposes corps members to insecurity, describing such claims as false and misleading.
This clarification comes amid rising concerns from families about the safety of corps members, particularly those posted to areas facing security challenges.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, stated that no such provision exists in the NYSC Act, its Bye-laws, or any official document of the scheme.
“The Management and Staff of the National Youth Service Corps have noted with serious concern the circulation of a misleading and alarmist write-up titled ‘Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits,” the statement read.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the NYSC categorically states that there is no provision whatsoever for any ‘ransom clause.’ This claim is entirely fictitious and should be disregarded in its entirety,” it added.
The scheme also addressed the case of Musa Abba, which has been widely referenced in connection with the allegations. According to the NYSC, the incident has been wrongly linked to its operations.
“We deeply empathise with Mr Musa Usman Abba and his family over the unfortunate incident… While this situation is distressing, it is important to clarify that he is not a serving Corps Member, having completed his national service in 2023,” the statement explained.
Amid the growing anxiety, the NYSC emphasised that it continues to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of corps members across the country.
It noted that corps members deployed to high-risk areas are provided with security support, including military escorts—an approach that has been consistently applied since 2024 in parts of the North West and earlier in the North East.
To further strengthen safety measures, the scheme has relocated orientation camps in states such as Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Borno, Gombe, and Plateau to more secure locations, safeguarding both corps members and officials.
“The NYSC remains a responsible and responsive institution that places the highest premium on the welfare, safety, and well-being of corps members and staff,” the statement said.
In addition, all corps members are covered by a life insurance policy through a partnership with Capital Express Assurance Limited. The coverage extends up to three weeks after the completion of service, alongside enrollment in the National Health Insurance Scheme.
The NYSC reiterated its commitment to its founding objective of promoting unity and national development, despite ongoing security concerns in some parts of the country.
It also warned against the spread of misinformation, noting that false reports can heighten fear and weaken public confidence in national institutions.
“The Scheme has been targeted on several occasions by purveyors of fake news and misinformation, making it imperative for the media and the general public to remain vigilant,” the statement concluded.
