31.8.2026
The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the rescue of 10 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) who were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Kogi State.
The corps members were rescued from the Egume Forest in Ofu Local Government Area during an operation involving joint security forces, the DHQ announced on Monday.
The victims were among 15 NYSC members reportedly abducted last week while travelling from Abuja to Bayelsa State.
The abduction had triggered concern among their families and the wider public, with the kidnappers reportedly demanding N20 million as ransom from the families of some of the corps members.
The military said security forces had successfully secured the freedom of 10 of the victims but were continuing operations to locate and rescue the remaining five corps members.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the ongoing operation is also aimed at tracking down and arresting those responsible for the kidnapping.
“The operation is still ongoing, with security forces working to rescue the remaining victims and arrest the suspects,” the DHQ said.
The military appealed to residents and members of the public to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could support the ongoing rescue efforts.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious movement or information that could help rescue the remaining victims and arrest the perpetrators,” the DHQ said.
The rescue operation comes amid continuing efforts by security agencies to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes along major highways and remote communities across the country.
With 10 of the 15 abducted corps members now rescued, security operatives are expected to sustain the operation in and around the forest area until the remaining victims are safely recovered and the suspected kidnappers are brought to justice.