The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has announced its decision to withdraw corps members from the Mbaa community, located in the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, due to recent attacks attributed to suspected herders.
Yahuza Adamu, the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations for NYSC in the state, conveyed this announcement in a statement released to reporters in Makurdi on Thursday. Adamu indicated that the ongoing violence in the region necessitated the withdrawal of corps members from the Mbaa community.
Reports indicate that armed herders have resulted in the deaths of over 20 individuals, including 16 farmers, whose remains were recovered from the River Katsina-Ala.
In an effort to reassure parents and guardians, Adamu emphasized that NYSC Benue State remains vigilant and committed to the safety and well-being of all corps members. He further assured stakeholders that the organization will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure the protection of those under its care.
The statement read, “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.”
He further stated that the NYSC Kwande Local Government Inspector conducted a headcount of corps members in the area, confirming that all were safe and accounted for.
He added, “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.
“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.”