No Ransom Clause in NYSC Scheme, Agency Debunks Viral Claim

No Ransom Clause in NYSC Scheme, Agency Debunks Viral Claim

FELICIA ONAH, Abuja

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has dismissed as false and misleading reports suggesting the existence of a “ransom clause” in its operations, describing the claim as entirely fictitious and capable of inciting public fear.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, the Scheme condemned the circulation of a viral publication titled *“Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits.”*

The NYSC said it viewed the development with “serious concern,” noting that the report was riddled with “falsehoods, distortions, and unverified claims.”

“At a time when national security requires responsible communication, it is deeply troubling that such a publication… has been disseminated to the public without due diligence,” the statement said.

Debunking the central claim, the agency stated categorically: “For the avoidance of doubt, the National Youth Service Corps categorically states that there is no provision whatsoever for any ‘ransom clause’ in the NYSC Act, Bye-laws, or any official publication of the Scheme. This claim is entirely fictitious and should be disregarded in its entirety.”

The NYSC also clarified issues surrounding one Musa Usman Abba, whose case was referenced in the report, noting that he is not a serving corps member.

“While this situation is distressing, it is important to clarify that he is not a serving Corps Member, having completed his national service in 2023. Any attempt to link his situation to the NYSC is therefore inaccurate and a misrepresentation of facts,” it said.

Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of corps members, the Scheme highlighted existing safety measures, including insurance coverage and medical support.

“In demonstration of this commitment, the Scheme has maintained a long-standing Memorandum of Understanding with Capital Express Assurance Limited since 2004, providing life insurance coverage for all Corps Members,” the statement noted.

It added that over the last five years alone, NYSC has expended over N500 million on urgent medical interventions for Corps Members across the country.

On security, the agency said it continues to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of corps members, especially in high-risk areas.

“Corps Members posted to areas assessed as high-risk are provided with adequate security arrangements, including military escorts,” it stated, adding that such measures have been consistently implemented in parts of northern Nigeria.

The NYSC further disclosed that orientation camps in some states had been relocated to safer locations as part of proactive safety measures.

Cautioning against the spread of misinformation, the Scheme stressed the need for responsible reporting and verification of facts.

“The Management of NYSC, therefore, urges media practitioners, stakeholders, and the general public to always verify information from credible sources before publication. The spread of fake news not only misinforms the public but also undermines national institutions and erodes trust,” it added.

The agency reaffirmed its dedication to national unity and youth development, pledging to continue prioritising the safety and well-being of corps members across the country.