Akwa Ibom students are facing heightened apprehension due to the recurring incidents of abductions involving potential corps members.

Students from the University of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State raised concerns over the recent abduction of potential corps members from the state during the weekend. The alarming trend, occurring almost consecutively, has become a major worry for residents.

Between August and November, a total of nineteen intending corps members were kidnapped while traveling to Zamfara and Kogi States through the Akwa Ibom State-owned transport company, AKTC. The first incident took place on August 19, 2023, when eight corps members on their way to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Sokoto were abducted in Zamfara State.

Despite assurances from the NYSC that the remaining victims would be rescued, no progress report has been provided three months later. Parents of the victims expressed frustration over the government’s perceived abandonment and negligence. They claimed to have raised N13 million, which was paid to the kidnappers, but their children remained captive. The kidnappers demanded an additional N100 million.

In early November 2023, another set of 11 corps members were abducted while boarding the AKTC to the NYSC Orientation camp in Kogi State. While it’s unclear if all 11 have been rescued, it was reported that most captives were released through the efforts of their families, who paid substantial amounts.

A parent, unwilling to disclose his name, expressed dismay at the state of the country, stating that the government seemed indifferent to citizens’ safety. The National Association of Akwa Ibom State Students at the University of Uyo called on the Federal Government, Akwa Ibom State government, security agencies, the National Assembly, and NYSC Directors to address the ongoing challenge and ensure the safe return of the abducted students.

The association urged authorities to implement lasting solutions, including enhancing security on routes between states and assigning students to regions of their study.

Fresh graduates awaiting NYSC mobilization expressed apprehension, with some stating concerns about being posted to the North. One graduate, Cynthia Chidera, described corps members as “endangered species” in the North, emphasizing the urgent need for the federal government to address the situation before the next posting, given the recent abductions of prospective corps members.