The Open Forum Care for Humanity Foundation has urged the State and Federal Governments to grant automatic employment to eight former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who were kidnapped in Zamfara State while en route to Sokoto for their mandatory service.
The ex-corpers, who have now reunited with their families in Akwa Ibom after enduring varying lengths of captivity, were the focus of a press conference held in Uyo. Matthew Okono, President of the foundation, stressed the need for comprehensive support to aid their recovery from the traumatic ordeal.
Okono praised President Bola Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, and the NYSC for their collaborative efforts in securing the safe release of the captives. He called on the Akwa Ibom State Government to offer these graduates automatic employment within the state civil service, as a critical step in helping them rebuild their lives.
Additionally, Okono advocated for urgent reforms to the NYSC program, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures and broader contributions to national development.
One of the survivors, Solomon Daniel, shared the harrowing details of his year-long captivity, describing the extreme hardships he faced and his inability to pay ransom due to financial difficulties. Other ex-corps members echoed their gratitude to those who facilitated their release and appealed to the government for employment opportunities and continued support to help them reintegrate into society.
