NYSC Debunks “Death Trap” Claims, Warns Against Misinformation
By Victor Idajili
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has strongly refuted a viral publication alleging that the Scheme exposes Nigerian graduates to security risks, describing the report as misleading, alarmist, and devoid of factual basis.
In a statement issued by its management, the NYSC expressed concern over the circulation of the write-up titled “Urgent: The NYSC Death Trap Our Graduates Are Being Sold to Bandits,” noting that the claims contained in it are riddled with falsehoods, distortions, and unverified assertions.
The Scheme emphasised that there is no provision for any “ransom clause” in the NYSC Act, its bye-laws, or any official document, dismissing the claim as entirely fictitious and urging the public to disregard it.
Addressing a case referenced in the publication, the NYSC clarified that Mr. Musa Usman Abba, whose situation was cited, is not a serving corps member, having completed his national service in 2023. It described attempts to link his circumstances to the Scheme as inaccurate and misleading, while expressing sympathy with him and his family.
Reaffirming its commitment to corps members’ welfare, the NYSC highlighted its longstanding partnership with Capital Express Assurance Limited, which has provided life insurance coverage for corps members since 2004.
The coverage extends to prospective corps members from the point of call-up through their service year and up to three weeks after completion, alongside their enrolment in the National Health Insurance Scheme.
The management further disclosed that over ₦500 million has been spent in the past five years on urgent medical interventions for corps members nationwide, underscoring its prioritisation of health and safety.
On security, the Scheme stated that it works closely with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of corps members, including the provision of military escorts to high-risk areas. It added that orientation camps in states such as Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Borno, Gombe, and Plateau have been relocated to safer locations as part of proactive measures.
The NYSC criticised the author of the publication for failing to seek clarification before dissemination, stressing the importance of the principle of audi alteram partem—hear the other side.
While warning against the dangers of fake news, the Scheme urged media practitioners and the public to verify information from credible sources before publication or sharing, noting that misinformation undermines public trust and national institutions.
It reaffirmed its commitment to youth development, national unity, and the safety and well-being of corps members across Nigeria.
