The Lagos State House of Assembly has called for swift government and security intervention after a prospective corps member, Binuyo Lateefah, was reportedly kidnapped while traveling to her NYSC posting, raising concerns over the safety of young Nigerians on national service.
The issue was raised by Hon. Omolara Olumegbon during a “Matter of Urgent Public Importance”. She informed the House that Lateefah was abducted on January 22, 2026, near the Kogi axis while en route to Taraba State, with her abductors reportedly demanding a ransom of ₦30 million.
Hon. Olumegbon urged the Assembly to engage the Federal Government to strengthen protection for corps members and called on the Lagos State Governor to liaise with Kogi State authorities for the victim’s safe release.
Other lawmakers also weighed in. Hon. Noheem Adams praised the President’s efforts in improving national security, while Hon. Ogundipe Stephen commended the military and stressed the need for intensified coordination between Lagos and Kogi State governments.
Hon. Tobun Abiodun suggested the NYSC review deployment procedures to reduce risks for corps members posted to remote or high-risk areas.
Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa described the incident as deeply troubling, stressing that young Nigerians committed to serving the nation should not face such threats.
He called on the NYSC to ensure the safety of corps members from departure to deployment and back, and urged further collaboration with the Kogi State Government and the Inspector-General of Police to secure the victim’s release and prevent similar incidents.
