By Onyeje Abutu-Joel
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Benue Command, has said that no corps member is exposed to any security risk in the state.
Mr Yahuza Adamu, the Public Relations Officer (PRO), NYSC in Benue, said this in a press statement, on Thursday in Makurdi.
Adamu’s statement followed a report published online by Sahara Reporters, on Feb 19, with the headline: ‘Corps members in panic as armed herdsmen invade Benue community, massacre 20 residents near army base’.
He said that Sahara Reporters had alleged that corps members serving in Jato Aka Turan community, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue, were in panic following attacks by armed herdsmen in the area.
Adamu appreciated Sahara Reporters for its partnership with NYSC, especially in constantly reporting about issues that bordered on security of corps members.
He, however, said that NYSC in Benue, under the leadership of the State Coordinator, Mrs Veronica Garba, does not take the issue of security of lives and property of the young Nigerian graduates entrusted into their care on national assignment with levity.
“We have a very robust synergy with all military, paramilitary and security organisations, as well as other community leaders in the state, towards ensuring that all corps members serving in the state are safe wherever they are posted.
“Since the beginning of incessant attacks on Mbaa Community, which shares boundary with Republic of Cameroon, NYSC withdrew all corps members from the area and has not posted any there till date.
“As a matter of policy, NYSC consistently takes proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure that corps members receive the necessary protection at all times,” Adamu said.
He also said upon reading the story from Sahara Reporters, the NYSC Kwande Local Government Inspector (LGI), conducted a head count and confirmed that all corps members in the LGA were complete and safe in all locations.
The PRO, therefore, assured parents and the general public that NYSC in Benue remained vigilant and committed to the welfare of all its corps members and would continue to work with security agencies to ensure their safety at all times.
He encouraged parents to always obtain accurate updates from NYSC official channels. NAN
