Peter Obi calls for immediate rescue of abducted prospective NYSC members

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has condemned the abduction of about 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps members and called for their immediate and safe rescue.

The prospective corps members were travelling from Oyo State to orientation camps when gunmen attacked their vehicles along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Imo State.

Obi, reacting to the incident on Sunday, said the kidnapping highlighted continuing security challenges faced by Nigerians travelling across the country.

He called on security agencies to secure the victims’ release and arrest those responsible for the attack.

Obi argued that young Nigerians travelling to participate in national service should be able to move safely without their families having to fear abduction. V

His comments came as authorities intensified search-and-rescue operations in Imo State.

Police said security personnel had tracked the suspected kidnappers’ location with drones but were proceeding cautiously after receiving intelligence that the area could contain improvised explosive devices.

Families of the abducted prospective corps members have also appealed for government intervention after the kidnappers reportedly demanded N50 million for each victim.

Parents said the total demand could reach N1 billion if 20 victims remain in captivity. Punch Newspapers
The rescue operation remained ongoing at the time of the latest reports