Imo Police Confirm Abduction of Prospective Corps Members

The Imo State Police have confirmed the abduction of several prospective corps members who were traveling from Ibadan. Reports stated that the abduction occurred along the Owerri-Onitsha expressway, with initial estimates indicating the hijacking of two buses and the kidnapping of up to 19 individuals, who were mainly prospective corps members.

According to sources, Nigerian Army troops successfully rescued 10 of the abducted corps members in a coordinated effort against the attackers. In the operation, troops also reportedly neutralized 16 suspected terrorists involved in the abduction, highlighting ongoing military efforts against such criminal activities in the region.

The abducted individuals were graduates of tertiary institutions in Oyo State, which has raised significant concern from local officials. Prince Adewole Adebayo, the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, has called on the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to prioritize the rescue of the abducted corps members.

In addition, the Oyo State Government has expressed deep concern regarding the incident. The government described the kidnapping as distressing and has condemned the actions of the perpetrators.

Organizations such as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have also responded, raising alarms over reported ransom demands reaching ₦50 million for the safe return of the abducted individuals. NANS has called for a review of lengthy National Youth Service Corps postings to ensure the safety of graduates on their journeys.

In a troubling development, the families of the abducted corps members have stated that they received threats from the kidnappers, indicating that the victims' safety is at immediate risk unless the ransom is paid. Reports suggest that demands may total up to ₦1 billion for the release of all kidnapped individuals.