The Oyo State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has appealed for the unconditional release of prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members from the state who were abducted in Imo State.
The prospective corps members were reportedly kidnapped on Thursday while travelling to the NYSC Orientation Camp in Abia State, where they were expected to begin their national service.
Alli described the incident as deeply disturbing, stressing that the affected graduates were travelling to fulfil their national service obligations and posed no threat to anyone.
He appealed directly to those holding the victims to release them without conditions.
“I appeal to those holding these young Nigerians to release them unconditionally. They are innocent graduates, sons and daughters of families who are now living in unbearable pain, fear and anxiety.”
According to him, the NYSC scheme was established to promote national unity and integration, making it particularly troubling that young Nigerians responding to the call to serve could become victims of abduction.
“The NYSC was established to promote national unity and integration. These young people should not become victims while answering the call to serve their country,” he said.
The APC governorship candidate expressed solidarity with the families of the abducted graduates, saying he shared their anguish as a parent.
He also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to locate the victims and secure their safe rescue.
Beyond the immediate incident, Alli called for stronger security measures along major inter-state roads, particularly routes frequently used by prospective corps members and other travellers.
He said improved security on such routes was necessary to prevent similar incidents and restore confidence among Nigerians travelling across the country.
“No Nigerian should have to fear for their life while travelling for education, employment or national service,” he said.
Alli further appealed to those responsible for the abduction to consider the consequences for the victims and their families and release the young graduates safely.
“Those responsible must recognise the sanctity of human life and spare these young Nigerians. Their families are waiting for them to return home safely,” he added.
He prayed for the safe return of all the abducted prospective corps members and urged their families to remain calm as security agencies work towards securing their release.
