Lagos Assembly Calls for Urgent Action After Corps Member Abducted
A young Nigerian graduate’s journey to answer the call of national service has been tragically interrupted. The Lagos State House of Assembly is now leading urgent calls for her safe return, highlighting serious concerns for the safety of all corps members travelling across the country.
What Happened to the Corps Member?
A prospective corps member, Miss Binuyo Lateefah, was abducted on the 22nd of January, 2026. She was travelling from Lagos to Taraba State to begin the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation programme when the incident occurred around the Kogi State axis.
Miss Lateefah is a Mass Communication graduate from the Kwara State Polytechnic. It has been reported that she is the only child of her mother, making this situation especially heartbreaking for her family.
The Lagos State House of Assembly’s Swift Response
Lawmakers in Lagos have moved quickly to address this distressing situation. The matter was raised in the Assembly by Honourable Omolara Olumegbon, who represents Lagos Island Constituency I.
Key Actions Demanded by the Assembly
During a special plenary session, the Assembly agreed on several important steps to try and secure Miss Lateefah’s release and prevent future incidents:
- Government Intervention: They are formally asking the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to speak directly with the Governor of Kogi State to help secure her safe rescue.
- Strengthened Security: The Assembly plans to write to the Federal Government, asking for better security measures for all prospective corps members travelling to their states of deployment.
- Review of NYSC Postings: Some lawmakers suggested writing to the Director-General of the NYSC. They want a review of how corps members are posted, especially to places that are very far away or considered higher risk.
- Police Involvement: The Speaker also said the Assembly would write to the Inspector-General of Police to intervene in this specific case.
Staying Safe: Official Advice for Travelling Corps Members
This terrible event reminds everyone how important it is to stay safe while travelling. The NYSC itself has shared clear advice for all corps members on the move.
- Avoid Night Travel: Only travel during daylight hours. The risks are much higher at night.
- Use Official Parks: Always board vehicles from government-approved motor parks and use registered transport companies.
- Share Your Journey: Tell your family or a trusted friend your travel plans. Share your live location with them using your phone so someone knows where you are at all times.
- Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when travelling through areas known for security challenges.
A Broader Challenge: Insecurity and the NYSC Experience
Unfortunately, the fear of insecurity is a reality for many young Nigerians starting their service year. Reports show that as orientation camps opened recently, thousands of corps members and their families felt anxious, particularly about postings to states facing security challenges like banditry and kidnapping.
Some states have even had to move their orientation camps to safer locations within the state capital to protect corps members. The Director-General of the NYSC has stated that the safety and welfare of corps members are the most important things, and that deployment should always consider the current security conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the abducted corps member?
She is Miss Binuyo Lateefah, a Mass Communication graduate from Kwara State Polytechnic. She is from Lagos Island and was travelling to begin her NYSC service in Taraba State when she was taken.
What are the kidnappers asking for?
The abductors have made a demand for a ransom of Thirty Million Naira (₦30,000,000) for her release.
What is being done to rescue her?
The Lagos State House of Assembly is actively pushing for her rescue. They are engaging state governors and federal security agencies. The Kogi State Police Command has also confirmed they are aware of the case and are working on it.
What is the NYSC saying about safety?
The NYSC advises all corps members to travel only during the day, use approved transport, and share their location with family. Their Director-General has also said that deployment must be guided by security conditions.
Can the NYSC change where I am posted if I feel unsafe?
There are official processes for redeployment, but they often happen after the orientation camp. The current discussion in the Lagos Assembly is about reviewing the initial posting process to minimise sending corps members to high-risk areas. If you have concerns, it is best to speak with officials at your orientation camp.
How can we help or show support?
The most important thing right now is to respect the privacy of the family and allow the security agencies to do their work. You can also keep Miss Lateefah and her family in your thoughts. For fellow corps members, the best support is to follow all safety advisories carefully to protect yourselves.
