The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has dismissed as false and misleading reports alleging that the scheme operates a “ransom clause” and exposes corps members to banditry.
This comes amid rising public anxiety over safety and postings across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Caroline Embu, the director of information and public relations said the management was alarmed by the circulation of a viral write-up titled “Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits.”
The statement reads, “The Management and Staff of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have noted with serious concern the circulation of a misleading and alarmist write-up.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the National Youth Service Corps categorically states that there is no provision whatsoever for any ‘ransom clause’ in the NYSC Act, Bye-laws, or any official publication of the Scheme. This claim is entirely fictitious and should be disregarded in its entirety.”
The scheme also clarified reports linking the case of Musa Usman Abba to its operations, stating that the individual was no longer a serving corps member.
“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 NYSC said, expressing sympathy with the family.
Addressing growing security concerns, the agency stressed that it continues to collaborate with security agencies nationwide to ensure the safety of corps members.
“Corps Members posted to areas assessed as high-risk are provided with adequate security arrangements, including military escorts. This proactive approach has been consistently implemented since 2024 in the North West and much earlier in some parts of the North East,” it stated.
The NYSC further disclosed that, in response to evolving threats, it had relocated orientation camps in several states, including Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Borno, Gombe and Plateau, to safer locations.
Reaffirming its commitment to welfare, the scheme highlighted its long-standing insurance arrangement for corps members.
It added, “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 scheme has maintained a long-standing Memorandum of Understanding with Capital Express Assurance Limited since 2004, providing life insurance coverage for all Corps Members.
“Notably, this insurance coverage extends up to three weeks after the completion of service.”
The NYSC criticised the publication for failing to seek its response before publication, warning that the spread of misinformation could heighten fear and erode public trust.
“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,” it warned.
Reiterating its mandate, the scheme maintained that it remains committed to national unity and the protection of corps members across the country.