By Our Correspondent
There is relief for families and loved ones of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted in Imo State, as the victims have regained their freedom following a security operation.
The prospective corps members were reportedly abducted on October 1, 2026, while travelling from Ibadan, Oyo State, to their various NYSC orientation camps in the South-East and South-South.
The incident occurred along the Owerri–Onitsha Road in the Umunoha area of Imo State, where suspected kidnappers intercepted the vehicles conveying the corps members.
One other person who was abducted alongside the prospective corps members was also reportedly released.
Security agencies move in
The rescue followed a coordinated, intelligence-led operation involving security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), police and military personnel.
The development came after security operatives intensified efforts to locate the victims and track down the kidnappers.
Earlier reports indicated that security forces had identified the suspected location where the victims were being held. However, an immediate assault was reportedly delayed after intelligence indicated that the area had been rigged with improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The development forced security agencies to adopt a more cautious approach in order to protect the lives of the abducted corps members.
Victims receive medical attention
Following their release, the rescued prospective corps members were taken to a DSS facility in Owerri, where they are reportedly receiving medical attention and undergoing necessary checks.
Their freedom brings an end to days of anxiety for their families, who had been desperately waiting for news of their loved ones.
A worrying journey to NYSC camp
The incident has also renewed concerns about the safety of prospective corps members travelling to orientation camps, particularly those journeying across states to begin their mandatory national service.
The victims were on their way to participate in the NYSC orientation programme when their journey was abruptly interrupted by the kidnappers.
Their eventual release is therefore being viewed as a major relief, even as security agencies continue efforts to apprehend those responsible for the abduction.
For the families, however, the immediate priority is clear: to see their loved ones safely reunited with them after the traumatic ordeal.