The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has refuted claims that 200 corps members were queried for failing to participate in a Christmas Carol event.
The organization clarified that the queries were unrelated to any religious activity, emphasizing the right of corps members to practice any religion of their choice, as enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution.
In a statement signed by Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, the NYSC explained that the affected corps members failed to participate in mandatory Community Development Service (CDS) activities and were absent during a December 2024 headcount conducted in Atiba Local Government Area.
“For the purpose of clarity, the affected corps members in Atiba did not participate in their scheduled Community Development Service activities and were also absent during the December 2024 headcount conducted to ascertain the number of corps members on ground in Atiba.
“Furthermore, they were also not in their respective places of primary assignment within the Local Government during the period in question,” the statement read.
Misinterpretation of Events
The NYSC described the queries issued by the Local Government Inspector as part of its corrective measures, stressing that these actions had no connection to any alleged Christmas Carol.
The organization reiterated its commitment to enforcing its Bye-Laws, which govern corps members’ conduct and outline penalties for infractions.
“Disturbingly, they all failed to obtain written permission from the NYSC Oyo State Coordinator to travel outside the state between December 16, 2024, and January 6, 2025.
“The queries issued to them by the Local Government Inspector serve as a corrective mechanism within the Scheme and have nothing to do with the alleged Christmas Carol.
“As a matter of fact, the National Youth Service Corps, as a responsible organization, operates within the confines of its Bye-Laws, which not only guide the activities of all corps members but also stipulate penalties for various offences,” the statement added.
The NYSC emphasized the importance of CDS and General CDS activities, which are compulsory for all corps members throughout their service year.
Participation in these activities is a prerequisite for obtaining the Certificate of National Service.
The organization appealed to journalists to ensure accuracy in their reporting and to avoid publishing unverified information that could cause unnecessary religious tension.
“Members of the public are hereby enjoined to disregard the online publication, which is erroneous and intended to cause unnecessary religious apprehension,” the statement concluded.