Olubadan confirms release of abducted NYSC members

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has confirmed the release of prospective National Youth Service Corps members who were abducted in Imo State.

Ladoja disclosed this on Wednesday, saying he received confirmation of their release from Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma during a telephone conversation at about 5 p.m.

The confirmation was contained in a statement issued by the Olubadan’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, titled, “NYSC: The prospective members of the youth service corps, who were abducted have been released.”

According to the statement, Uzodinma personally confirmed to Ladoja that the prospective corps members had regained their freedom, although it did not provide details of the circumstances surrounding their release.

It also did not disclose where the victims were released, whether any ransom was paid or whether security agencies were involved in securing their freedom.

The development is expected to bring relief to the families of the prospective corps members, who had been anxiously awaiting information about their safety since the abduction.

Feelers from some of the parents indicated that the confirmation had eased their concerns, although they were still awaiting further information on the whereabouts and condition of their children.

As of Wednesday evening, details about the circumstances of the release, including the victims’ exact location and current condition, remained undisclosed.