The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has taken swift action to ensure the safety of its corps members in Benue State, withdrawing them from the volatile Mbaa community in Kwande Local Government Area.
This decision comes after a devastating attack by suspected armed herders, which resulted in the loss of over 20 lives, including 16 farmers whose bodies were found in River Katsina-Ala.
The NYSC has confirmed on Thursday that all corps members have been safely evacuated from the area, with the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Yahuza Adamu, stating that the withdrawal was a precautionary measure to protect the corps members from the ongoing attacks.
The corps members have been relocated to a safer area, and the NYSC has assured that it will continue to work with security agencies to ensure their safety.
The attack on the Mbaa community has reignited concerns about the safety of corps members deployed to Nigeria’s conflict zones.
The NYSC has a policy of prioritizing the welfare and safety of its corps members, and this withdrawal is a testament to that commitment.
Suspected armed herders have reportedly killed over 20 people, including 16 farmers whose bodies were found in River Katsina Ala.
The incident has also sparked calls for the government to take decisive action to address the herder-farmer conflict, which has been plaguing the region for years.
As the situation continues to unfold, the NYSC has urged parents and guardians to remain calm and assured them that the safety of their children is the top priority.
The corps members who were withdrawn from the area are safe and accounted for, and the NYSC is working to ensure that they are able to continue their service in a safe and secure environment.
The statement read, “Since the beginning of incessant attacks on Mbaa Community which shares boundary with the Republic of Cameroon, NYSC withdrew all Corps Members from the area, and has not posted any there till date.”
He added, “Hence, all Corps Members serving in Jato Acka Turan, which is far away from the affected community, are not exposed to any security threat.
“In fact, as a matter of policy, NYSC consistently takes proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure that Corps Members receive the necessary protection at all times.
“We assure parents and guardians that NYSC Benue State remains vigilant and committed to the welfare of all its Corps Members and will continue to work with security agencies to ensure their safety at all times.
“Parents and guardians are encouraged to obtain accurate updates from NYSC official channels.”
