Relief swept through the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, yesterday after security agencies and local vigilante groups successfully rescued all 16 corps members abducted in Kogi State.
The corps members were abducted on August 26 while travelling from the NYSC Orientation Camp in Bayelsa State to Abuja after completing their orientation exercise.
Their safe rescue brought an end to days of tension among their families and the NYSC management, which commended the security agencies for their bravery, professionalism and persistent efforts to locate the victims.
In a statement signed by its Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, the NYSC commended the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Kogi State vigilante groups and other stakeholders for their contributions to the rescue operation.
The NYSC described the operation as evidence of effective collaboration, dedication and determination among the security agencies.
The rescue followed sustained intelligence-led operations across forests and communities suspected to be connected to the abduction.
During the operation, security personnel rescued 10 of the corps members from a forest in Egume, Kogi State, while efforts continued to locate the remaining victims.
The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Salifu Oyiza Afusat, disclosed this in a statement issued in Lokoja, stating that security forces had intensified operations across the forest and adjoining areas.
According to the police, the operation was intended to secure the release of the abducted corps members and arrest the criminals responsible for the attack.
With all 16 victims now safely rescued, the NYSC said the corps members were in high spirits and looking forward to returning to their respective places of primary assignment.
The NYSC also recognised the concern and support of President Bola Tinubu, stating that his commitment to the safety and welfare of corps members added urgency to the rescue efforts.
It also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Minister of Youth Development for their contributions towards securing the release of the corps members.
The NYSC further praised the media for its professional coverage of the incident, especially its restraint in reporting the abduction without endangering the safety of the victims while they were in captivity.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State Police Command commended the security personnel who participated in the operation for their courage, professionalism and determination.
The command also expressed appreciation to residents of the affected communities for supplying timely and reliable information that supported the efforts of the security agencies.
It urged residents to remain calm and alert while reporting suspicious movements or useful information that could support the ongoing security operations.
Although the immediate focus was on securing the safe return of the corps members, the NYSC said the incident had highlighted the need to improve measures for protecting corps members travelling to and from orientation camps.
It stated that relevant protocols would be reassessed to reinforce security arrangements and minimise the risk of a similar incident occurring again.
The NYSC assured the corps members of continued assistance as they recover from the ordeal, describing their resilience throughout the experience as commendable.
