Abducted NYSC Member Feared Dead After Family Pays N10 Million Ransom to Bandits!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan, Editor-in-Chief | Sele Media Africa
The family of an abducted member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has expressed fears that the young graduate may have been killed by suspected terrorists despite the payment of a ₦10 million ransom meant to secure his release.
Family sources disclosed that communication with the kidnappers abruptly stopped shortly after the ransom was delivered, heightening concerns about the victim’s fate. The corps member, identified as Abba, was reportedly abducted by armed bandits in northern Nigeria during a period of escalating insecurity across the region.
According to relatives, the abductors initially demanded a ransom for his release, which the family struggled to raise with support from friends, sympathizers, and community members. After the ₦10 million payment was made, however, the kidnappers allegedly demanded additional items, including motorcycles, before considering his release.
Shortly after receiving the ransom, the criminals reportedly cut off all communication with the family, leaving them in prolonged uncertainty about the corps member’s safety.
“We have not heard from them since the ransom was paid,” a family source said. “They stopped responding to calls completely, and we fear the worst.”
Faced with the silence from the kidnappers and mounting fears that the victim may have been killed, the family has reportedly begun preparations to observe an Islamic funeral prayer in absentia, known as Janaza Gha’ib. The prayer is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 6, in accordance with Islamic tradition.
Despite the grim outlook, family members say they still hope for a miracle, praying that the abducted corps member could yet be alive and regain his freedom.
“If he is still alive, we pray that he will return safely,” a relative said. “If he has died, may God forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest.”
The incident underscores Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, where kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common across several regions of the country. Security analysts warn that the proliferation of armed banditry and terrorist groups continues to threaten civilians, students, and young graduates participating in the national service programme.
Nigeria’s youth service scheme, established in 1973, requires graduates to undertake a one-year national assignment aimed at promoting unity and development. However, persistent insecurity in parts of the country has repeatedly exposed corps members to risks ranging from kidnapping to violent attacks.
Civil society groups and security experts have repeatedly urged the federal government to strengthen protection for corps members and improve security along highways and rural communities where many abductions occur.
Meanwhile, the grieving family has expressed gratitude to individuals, religious groups, and well-wishers who supported them financially and emotionally during the ordeal.
“We deeply appreciate everyone who prayed, donated, and stood by us in this difficult time,” the family said.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not released an official statement confirming the death of the abducted corps member.
Sources: Zagazola Makama, NigerianEye, Daily Trust
Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.
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