Benue crisis: NYSC withdraws corps members from volatile community

In the face of the breeding crisis in Mbaa community in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has confirmed the withdrawal of corps members to ensure their safety.

Yahuza Adamu, the assistant director of information and public relations at NYSC in Benue disclosed this on Thursday, February 20, in a statement made available to journalists in Makurdi, the state capital.

In the statement, Adamu explained that the withdrawal of corps members from Mbaa community was as a result of incessant attacks on the community.

Alleged armed herders have reportedly killed over 20 people, including 16 farmers whose bodies were found in River Katsina Ala.

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Adamu in dispelling the fear of parents and guardians, said that the NYSC Benue State remains vigilant and committed to the welfare of all its corps members and promised to continue to work with security agencies to ensure their safety.

“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,” the statement read.

Besides, Adamu explained that the NYSC Kwande Local Government inspector conducted a headcount of corps members in the area, confirming that no soul was lost in the attack, as all were safe and accounted for.

“Hence, all corps members serving in Jato Acka Turan, which is far away from the affected community, are not exposed to any security threat.

“In fact, 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,” he said.

In addition, he said; “We assure parents and guardians that NYSC Benue State remains vigilant and committed to the welfare of all its corps members and will continue to work with security agencies to ensure their safety at all times.

“Parents and guardians are encouraged to obtain accurate updates from NYSC official channels.”