NYSC Disowns Circulating Pamphlet Advising Corps Members to Pay Ransom
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has disowned a pamphlet currently circulating on social media that falsely advises corps members to pay ransom in the event of abduction. The scheme described the document as unauthorised and fake, urging corps members to ignore it completely.
In a statement issued via its X handle on Thursday, the NYSC explained that a similar pamphlet had been presented by a consultant in 2021 but was never officially adopted or approved.
“The attention of the Management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has been drawn to a purported pamphlet advising corps members to pay ransom in the event of kidnapping. While a similar document was presented for consideration by a consultant in 2021, it was not adopted by the Scheme. Management wishes to make it clear that the document being circulated is not an official NYSC publication and does not represent the Scheme’s policy regarding staff and corps members’ security; as such, it should be ignored,” the statement read.
The NYSC reassured corps members and the public that it remains fully committed to their safety. The statement highlighted that the organisation continues to work closely with security agencies and other stakeholders to enhance the protection of all corps members and staff, especially in high-risk regions.
The pamphlet first gained public attention in September 2021, when images circulated widely across social media platforms. It reportedly advised travellers on “high-risk roads” to alert friends, family, or colleagues so someone could be available to pay any ransom demanded in the event of abduction. Although initially dismissed as fake, the NYSC later acknowledged that variations of the document had circulated, prompting an internal investigation to identify the source and prevent further confusion.
The reemergence of the pamphlet comes amid heightened national security concerns, including a series of abductions in Kwara State and other parts of Nigeria. Analysts have noted that such misinformation could create unnecessary panic among corps members and affect their focus during service year assignments. This is particularly concerning given Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with kidnapping, banditry, and other security threats.
The NYSC also emphasised that corps members should follow official safety guidelines, including avoiding high-risk areas when possible, maintaining communication with family or colleagues, and immediately reporting suspicious activity to security authorities. The Scheme urged corps members to remain vigilant but not to rely on unverified advice or documents circulating online.
Security experts have also weighed in, warning that pamphlets like this could be exploited by criminals to manipulate victims or justify ransom demands. The NYSC’s prompt clarification is therefore seen as a critical step in protecting corps members and maintaining confidence in official safety protocols.
The NYSC concluded by urging corps members and the public to exercise caution when encountering unofficial documents related to security, and to rely solely on official publications and guidance provided by the Scheme.
