The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has strongly refuted claims contained in a viral publication alleging that the scheme exposes Nigerian graduates to insecurity and operates a so-called “ransom clause,” describing the report as false, misleading, and capable of inciting public fear.
In a statement issued by its Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, the Scheme said it was alarmed by the circulation of the write-up titled “Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits,” which it accused of being riddled with distortions and unverified claims.
The NYSC categorically dismissed the allegation of any “ransom clause” in its legal framework, stressing that no such provision exists in the NYSC Act, bye-laws, or any official document guiding its operations. It urged the public to disregard the claim entirely.
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Addressing a case cited in the viral report, the Scheme expressed sympathy for Musa Usman Abba and his family but clarified that he is not a serving corps member, having completed his national service in 2023. It described attempts to link his situation to the NYSC as inaccurate and misleading.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of corps members, the NYSC highlighted its longstanding partnership with Capital Express Assurance Limited, which provides life insurance coverage for all participants in the scheme.
According to the statement, the coverage applies from the point of call-up through orientation and extends up to three weeks after service completion.
The Scheme also disclosed that it has spent over ₦500 million on emergency medical interventions for corps members nationwide in the last five years, underscoring what it described as sustained efforts to safeguard participants.
On security, the NYSC noted that it works closely with security agencies to protect corps members, particularly in high-risk areas. It said measures such as military escorts have been implemented in parts of the North West since 2024 and earlier in sections of the North East.
Additionally, the agency revealed that orientation camps in states including Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Borno, Gombe, and Plateau have been relocated to safer locations as part of proactive safety measures.
The NYSC criticised the author of the controversial publication for failing to seek its input before going public, invoking the principle of fair hearing and urging media practitioners to uphold professional standards.
It warned that the spread of misinformation not only misleads the public but also undermines national institutions and erodes trust, calling on Nigerians to verify information from credible sources before sharing.
The Scheme reaffirmed its commitment to national unity, youth development, and the safety of corps members, while urging stakeholders to support efforts aimed at strengthening public confidence in the institution.
