20 Kidnapped Prospective NYSC Members Regain Freedom in Imo State
Twenty National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who were abducted in Imo State en route to their states of deployment in Abia and Akwa Ibom have safely regained their freedom.
The graduates, alongside one other passenger, were captured by gunmen on October 1, 2026, near Umunoha along the busy Owerri-Onitsha Expressway while traveling from Ibadan, Oyo State.
Following a coordinated, intelligence-led operation by a joint security task force—including the military, police, and the Department of State Services (DSS)—the captives were successfully rescued unharmed.
Intelligence sources confirm that all 21 rescued individuals have been placed in the protective custody of the DSS and are currently undergoing medical evaluation at the DSS Hospital in Owerri.
Reacting to the successful rescue, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma applauded the security agencies for their patriotism, swift intervention, and seamless collaboration.
In a personally signed statement, Governor Uzodimma expressed profound satisfaction with the joint strategic efforts of both the Oyo and Imo State governments, which facilitated the quick release of the captives.
He explained that because the situation directly involved human lives, the authorities maintained strict confidentiality and handled the operation discreetly to avoid compromising the victims’ safety.
The Governor extended his gratitude to the parents of the corps members for demonstrating patience and fortitude during the trying period. He further urged Nigerians to remain steadfast and retain faith in the Federal Government’s capacity to decisively tackle the nation’s security challenges.
