Osun NURTW demands stronger highway security after NYSC members’ abduction

The National Union of Road Transport Workers in Osun State has called for stronger security on Nigerian highways following the abduction of prospective National Youth Service Corps members travelling to their orientation camps.

Acting Chairman of the Osun NURTW, Kazeem Oyewale, said the incident had heightened concerns about the safety of Nigerians travelling across the country, particularly students and young people embarking on national service.

About 20 prospective corps members were reportedly abducted after gunmen attacked two buses travelling from Ibadan, Oyo State, to NYSC orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states.

The attack occurred along the Owerri-Onitsha Road around Umunoha in Imo State.

Oyewale called on the Federal Government, state governments, NYSC authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and improve security along vulnerable highways.

He also urged transport operators and drivers to remain vigilant while travelling through isolated or high-risk areas and to report suspicious activity to security agencies.

Police locate suspected kidnappers’ camp

Security agencies have since identified a suspected location where the kidnapped travellers are believed to be held.

Imo State Commissioner of Police Audu Bosso said drones were used to track the suspected camp, but an immediate advance was delayed after intelligence suggested the area had been planted with improvised explosive devices.

Authorities said armoured vehicles and other equipment were being prepared as the rescue operation continued.

The Inspector-General of Police also deployed senior officers and additional tactical personnel to Imo State to coordinate the operation.

Families of the victims have said the kidnappers demanded N50 million for each captive, amounting to a total demand of N1 billion if 20 people remain in captivity.

There have been conflicting accounts about the exact number abducted and how many passengers escaped or were rescued, so figures should continue to be treated cautiously until security agencies establish a definitive account.