NYSC confirms death of serving corps member in Maiduguri orientation camp

By Folashade Olorunfemi –

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has confirmed the death of a female corps member, Lohina Bamaiyi Ajegena, after a brief illness at the temporary orientation camp in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The development was confirmed on Friday by the Borno State NYSC coordinator, Nasir Bello, who said the deceased had an underlying health condition before reporting to camp. He dismissed claims that she died as a result of morning drills or inadequate medical facilities.

Reports indicate that Lohina died on Monday at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, where she was receiving treatment after collapsing and being rushed from the camp clinic.

In his defence, Bello insisted that the corps member did not participate in camp activities due to her health condition but declined to disclose details of the ailment.

“You can go to a teaching hospital to find out and ask the doctor. It is not my position to disclose that,” he said.

However, eyewitnesses said Lohina collapsed after Monday evening’s drills and was later confirmed dead at the hospital.

A senior security personnel in the camp, who spoke on condition of anonymity, also said the corps member collapsed in her hostel before she was taken to a hospital in town.

Another eyewitness claimed Lohina was diabetic and had been unable to take her medication after it was allegedly seized at the camp gate, raising concerns about access to essential drugs. Her death has since sparked renewed calls for improved medical facilities at orientation camps.