On October 4, 2026, Adewole Adebayo, the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), called for the immediate rescue of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway in Imo State. The incident occurred when corps members were ambushed by gunmen while traveling from Ibadan to the NYSC orientation camp in Bende, Abia State. According to reports, the abduction took place around the Umunoha axis of Mbaitoli Local Government Area.
Adebayo's campaign organization reported that 10 corps members were rescued by security operatives, while others remained in captivity. The SDP candidate described the incident as an assault on young Nigerians committed to national service and integration. He emphasized that the youth should not be hunted down like game on public highways. Adebayo's statement was issued through his campaign's Head of Media and Communications Directorate, Mark Adebayo.
Adebayo urged the Inspector-General of Police, military authorities, and Imo State Commissioner of Police to deploy all available resources to rescue the remaining victims. He also called on the governors of Imo, Abia, and Anambra states to prioritize the rescue operation over non-essential engagements. According to Adebayo, the safety of citizens must take precedence over political, administrative, and ceremonial activities.
The SDP candidate demanded a comprehensive review of security policies governing the deployment and movement of NYSC members. He advocated for stronger intelligence gathering, highway surveillance, and rapid-response systems to prevent similar attacks. Adebayo emphasized that young Nigerians undertaking national service should not be exposed to preventable security risks.
Adebayo's campaign organization urged security agencies to ensure that all abducted corps members are rescued alive and reunited with their families. The organization did not provide details on the number of corps members still in captivity. The incident has raised concerns about the security of NYSC members during their service.
The NYSC orientation camp in Bende, Abia State, is a major hub for corps members from various parts of the country. The Owerri-Onitsha Expressway is a major route for travelers and goods. The abduction incident has highlighted the need for improved security measures along this route and in the region.
Adebayo's call for a security overhaul and immediate rescue of the abducted corps members has resonated with many Nigerians. The SDP candidate's demand for a review of security arrangements for corps members traveling to orientation camps and places of primary assignment is seen as a necessary step to prevent future incidents.
Key points
- Adewole Adebayo demands immediate rescue of abducted NYSC members and overhaul of security arrangements.
- The incident occurred along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway in Imo State, with 10 corps members reportedly rescued.
- Adebayo calls for a comprehensive review of security policies governing NYSC deployment and movement.
