In a distressing development, suspected bandits have reportedly abducted more than eight National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, demanding a ransom of four million Naira for their safe release. The heinous incident unfolded along a highway within Zamfara State last Friday, sending shockwaves through the nation.
The victims, all young individuals, were en route from Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, to Sokoto State aboard an Akwa Ibom Transport Company (AKTC) bus. Their journey was intended to facilitate their participation in the mandatory National Service. Tragically, the bandits intercepted their bus, launching a brazen attack that led to the abduction of the innocent NYSC members.
The father of one of the kidnapped victims, Emmanuel Eket, provided insight into the dire situation. He revealed that his daughter, Glory Thomas, had managed to relay updates from the bandits’ camp to her family. Eket recounted a phone call from the abductors, using his daughter’s phone to inform him about the situation and demand a four million Naira ransom for her release.
In a poignant plea for his daughter’s safety, Eket expressed, “They allowed me to speak with my daughter because I asked how they wanted us to pay and my daughter said we should contact the AKTC.” His anguished words highlighted the heart-wrenching reality faced by families in such distressing situations.
The whereabouts of the abducted NYSC members remained uncertain as no subsequent communication had occurred between Eket and his daughter. The silence maintained by the Zamfara State Police Command over the incident has further deepened the sense of unease and frustration surrounding the abduction.
However, a confidential military source confirmed the kidnapping, disclosing that a rescue operation was underway. A specialized team was actively combing the forested area to locate and liberate the victims without harm.
The incident has once again underscored the urgent need for concerted efforts to combat the escalating threat of banditry and abductions, safeguarding the lives of innocent individuals who are pursuing their aspirations and contributing to the nation’s development through their participation in the NYSC program.
