The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has withdrawn all corps members from Mbaa community in the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State due to a rise in violent attacks.
On Thursday, Yahuza Adamu, the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations for NYSC in Benue, confirmed the withdrawal, citing persistent security threats in the area.
“Due to the ongoing and frequent attacks on Mbaa Community, which borders the Republic of Cameroon, NYSC has removed all Corps Members from the area and has not assigned any to that location since,” the statement explained.
The situation in Mbaa has deteriorated, with reports indicating that suspected armed herders have taken the lives of over 20 individuals, including 16 farmers whose bodies were found in the River Katsina Ala.
Adamu reassured parents and guardians that NYSC is vigilant and dedicated to the welfare of its corps members.
He mentioned that the NYSC Inspector for Kwande Local Government had conducted a headcount, confirming that all corps members are safe and accounted for.
“As a result, all Corps Members serving in Jato Acka Turan, which is situated far from the affected community, are not under any security threat,” he added.
The NYSC official emphasised that the organisation takes proactive measures to protect corps members.
“In fact, as part of our policy, NYSC consistently implements steps to mitigate risks and ensure that Corps Members receive necessary protection at all times,” Adamu stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to security, NYSC pledged to continue its collaboration with security agencies.
“We assure parents and guardians that NYSC in Benue State will remain vigilant and dedicated to the welfare of all our Corps Members and will actively work with security agencies to ensure their safety at all times,” the statement continued.
Adamu encouraged parents and guardians to rely on NYSC’s official communication channels for accurate updates.
“Parents and guardians are urged to seek accurate updates through NYSC’s official channels,” he concluded.
