Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has praised security agencies for their successful rescue operation, which led to the safe release of 20 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and a civilian. The victims were abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Imo State while traveling from Ibadan to various NYSC orientation camps in the South-East and South-South. They were reportedly traveling in two buses when armed men intercepted them and forced them into the surrounding bush.
The victims, who had spent seven days in captivity, were rescued from the Amakohia-Ubi forest in Owerri West Local Government Area following a coordinated security operation. The rescued corps members and the civilian were subsequently taken to the Department of State Services (DSS) Clinic in Owerri, where they are receiving medical attention and undergoing necessary medical checks. The NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, visited the DSS Clinic to address the rescued corps members.
The rescue operation involved the Imo State Police Command and other security agencies, who combed surrounding forests in search of the victims. Governor Uzodimma commended the security agencies for their “quick and coordinated intervention” which led to the safe release of the victims. He also praised the collaboration among the security agencies and the cooperation between the Imo and Oyo State Governments, which contributed to the successful rescue operation.
Uzodimma expressed satisfaction with the discreet approach adopted by the security agencies, saying their patriotism and professionalism ensured that the 20 corps members were rescued unharmed. He commended the parents and relatives of the victims for their patience and understanding during the period of uncertainty. The governor urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies in their efforts to maintain peace and security in the country.
The NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, was accompanied by the Imo State Commissioner of Police, the state Director of the DSS, and the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade, Owerri, to the DSS Clinic. The visit was aimed at providing support and reassurance to the rescued corps members. Governor Uzodimma's statement emphasized the importance of sensitive information being withheld during the operation to ensure the security of human lives.
The incident triggered a security operation involving multiple agencies, which eventually led to the rescue of the victims. Uzodimma's commendation of the security agencies reflects the state's appreciation for their efforts in maintaining peace and security. The governor's call for continued support for security agencies highlights the importance of collaboration between the government and citizens in achieving a safer Nigeria.
The rescued corps members and civilian are currently receiving medical attention at the DSS Clinic. Governor Uzodimma's statement expressed gratitude to the security agencies and urged Nigerians to continue supporting their efforts. The successful rescue operation demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated security efforts in achieving positive outcomes.
Key points
- Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, commends security agencies for rescuing 20 NYSC members and a civilian abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road.
- The victims were rescued after spending seven days in captivity in the Amakohia-Ubi forest in Owerri West Local Government Area.
- The rescue operation involved a coordinated effort by the Imo State Police Command and other security agencies.
