Wendy R. 
The management of the National Youth Service Corps has denied ransom payment to secure the release of the prospective corps members abducted in Zamfara State.
In a statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations of the NYSC, Eddy Megwa, on Thursday, the management noted that the release of four of the eight abducted corps members so far, was with the combined efforts of the NYSC and security agents, rather than with any state governments as reported in some media.
The statement read in part, “To put the records straight, the release of the prospective corps members kidnapped in Zamfara State on their way to report at orientation camp in Sokoto State, was primarily on the combined effort of the security agents and the National Youth Service Corps.
“It is also noteworthy to state that no state government, individual or agency paid any amount in the guise of ransom before their release.
“The management of National Youth Service Corps, since their release, is shouldering the responsibility of their medical bills where they are recuperating.
“The management therefore disassociates itself from the claim that Akwa Ibom State Government or any other state government paid money for their release.
“It is however impressive to note that so far, the management of the National Youth Service Corps and security agents have succeeded in securing the release of four out of the eight kidnapped prospective corps members without paying any amount of money and still working relentlessly towards securing the release of the remaining prospective corps members in the hands of the kidnappers”.
Megwa also warned members of the public and parents of the remaining abducted corps members to be wary of those who sought to defraud them under the guise of raising money to secure the release of the remaining corps members.
“The management of the scheme is very much aware of different account numbers and names currently being circulated in the public calling for financial donations towards paying ransom for the release of the prospective corps members.
“The NYSC management therefore is making an open call to the parents and family members of the kidnapped prospective corps members, Akwa Ibom, Zamfara State Governments or anybody not to fall prey to the unscrupulous elements who fraudsters taking undue advantage of the situation to defraud unsuspecting members of the public by calling for donation towards the release of the kidnapped prospective corps members ” the statement added.
The NYSC also reiterated its commitment to the welfare and security of the corps members, adding that it will continue to intensify synergy with security agencies towards the safety of the corps members.
punchng.com
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