The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has withdrawn corps members from Mbaa community in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State following reports of attacks by suspected armed herders, which resulted in the deaths of over 20 people, including 16 farmers whose bodies were discovered in River Katsina-Ala.
In a statement released on Thursday, February 20, Yahuza Adamu, the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations of NYSC in Benue, confirmed that the decision was made due to the ongoing attacks on the community. Adamu reassured parents and guardians, saying that NYSC Benue remains committed to the safety and welfare of its corps members and is collaborating with security agencies to ensure their protection.
The statement read, “Since the beginning of incessant attacks on Mbaa Community which shares boundary with the Republic of Cameroon, NYSC withdrew all Corps Members from the area, and has not posted any there till date.”
Adamu further mentioned that the NYSC Kwande Local Government Inspector had conducted a headcount of corps members in the area and confirmed that all were safe and accounted for. He added, “Hence, all Corps Members serving in Jato Acka Turan, which is far away from the affected community, are not exposed to any security threat."
He emphasized that, “As a matter of policy, NYSC consistently takes proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure that Corps Members receive the necessary protection at all times."
The NYSC also reassured parents and guardians that it remains vigilant and will continue to work with security agencies to safeguard its members. They urged parents and guardians to stay informed through the official channels of NYSC for accurate updates.