The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has strongly refuted claims contained in a viral publication alleging that the scheme exposed Nigerian graduates to danger, describing the report as false, misleading, and alarmist.
In a statement issued by its management, the NYSC expressed concern over the circulation of the write-up titled “Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits,” noting that it was riddled with distortions and unverified claims capable of inciting fear and undermining public confidence.
The Scheme categorically dismissed allegations of a so-called “ransom clause,” stressing that no such provision exists in the NYSC Act, bye-laws, or any of its official documents. It described the claim as entirely fictitious and urged the public to disregard it.
Addressing a case referenced in the viral report, the NYSC clarified that Mr. Musa Usman Abba, whose situation was cited, is not a serving corps member, having completed his national service in 2023. The Scheme, however, expressed sympathy with him and his family, while condemning attempts to link his circumstances to its operations.
Reaffirming its commitment to corps members’ welfare, the NYSC highlighted its long-standing partnership with Capital Express Assurance Limited, which provides life insurance coverage for all corps members from the point of call-up through orientation and up to three weeks after service. It added that corps members are also enrolled in the National Health Insurance Scheme.
The management disclosed that over ₦500 million has been spent on urgent medical interventions for corps members nationwide in the past five years, underscoring its dedication to their well-being.
On security, the NYSC noted that it worked closely with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of corps members, including deploying military escorts to high-risk areas particularly in parts of the North West and North East. It also revealed that orientation camps in states such as Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Borno, Gombe, and Plateau have been relocated to safer locations as part of proactive safety measures.
The Scheme criticised the author of the viral publication for failing to seek clarification before publishing, citing the principle of audi alteram partem “hear the other side” as a fundamental standard of fairness that was ignored.
While warning against the growing trend of misinformation, the NYSC urged media practitioners and the public to verify information from credible sources before dissemination, stressed that fake news eroded trust in national institutions.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to fostering national unity, youth development, and nation-building, while pledging to continue prioritising the safety and welfare of corps members across the country.
