Parents of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, who were recently abducted while traveling from Ibadan to their orientation camps in Imo State, have made a desperate appeal to traditional rulers and security agencies for intervention.

The victims were intercepted by gunmen along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Umunoha, Imo State. Following the attack, the abductors contacted the distraught families, demanding a staggering N1 billion in total—N50 million per victim—with a strict 24-hour ultimatum and threats of fatal consequences.

Official Responses

• Police Deployment: Following the incident, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of Operations, Shehu Nadada, to Imo State. DIG Nadada arrived alongside senior police commissioners to conduct an on-the-spot assessment and oversee the coordinated rescue efforts.

• Assurances from Leadership: The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, alongside the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, met with the families at the monarch's private residence in Bodija. Oba Ladoja reassured the parents that security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the safe release of the graduates.

• Inter-State Collaboration: Oyo State CP Abimbola confirmed active communication with his counterpart in Imo State, emphasizing that security operatives are fully mobilized to secure the victims unharmed.

Controversy Surrounding the Transport Company

During their frantic search for assistance and information, some parents directed severe criticisms toward Eduak King Transport Company, located in Samonda, Ibadan, which conveyed the victims.

• Withholding Information: Families alleged that the transport operator refused to provide the passenger manifest or next-of-kin details, making it difficult for relatives to coordinate and reach out to one another.

• Calls for Investigation: Distraught parents, including Mrs. Iyabo Akande and Mr. Olawale Olaleye, called on the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the company. They expressed deep concern that the transport operator continued its daily loading operations despite the gravity of the ongoing tragedy.

Ongoing Rescue Operations

The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with sister security agencies, has reinforced its tactical presence in Imo State. Authorities have urged the public and media to remain calm and vigilant, encouraging anyone with credible intelligence to share it confidentially with the nearest security formation to aid the ongoing rescue mission.