Oyo, Imo Join Forces to Rescue 20 Corps Members

The Oyo State Government announced Sunday that it is collaborating with the Imo State Government and security agencies to secure the release of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members kidnapped in Imo State.

Gunmen intercepted two buses along the Owerri-Onitsha Road on Thursday as the graduates travelled from Ibadan to their orientation camps, with the abductors subsequently demanding a ₦1 billion ransom.

Oyo Information Commissioner Dotun Oyelade confirmed that state officials are sharing technical strategies and insights from previous incidents, noting, “Oyo State is volunteering the templates and experiences it garnered during the Oriire kidnapping incident.”

Oyelade stated that recent findings from the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Oriire abductions, chaired by Justice Mojeed Owoade, are actively guiding the bilateral operations.

While emphasising that governments must withhold specific tactical details during sensitive hostage rescue efforts, Oyelade pointed to broader national security responsibilities: “The focus should indeed be on the Nigerian government and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who are responsible for national security, particularly on the actions taken within the first 72 hours of the incident.”

He reassured the public that Oyo State will maintain continuous coordination with Imo authorities and security forces until all victims return safely.