Nigeria’s House of Representatives has called for urgent action to rescue Okeke Godwin, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who went missing on May 9, 2024, while serving in Ondo State. Godwin, a distinguished graduate of Computer Science from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, was supposed to complete his NYSC assignment on June 17, 2024 ¹.
The House directed the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and NYSC Director General, Brig Gen Yushau Ahmed, to conduct a search and rescue operation. The motion, sponsored by Mr. Nnolim Nnaji, noted that Godwin’s family has been left in distress, with no vital information gathered despite reporting the matter to the police and NYSC offices ¹.
Key Actions Directed by the House:
- Comprehensive Search and Rescue Operation: The IGP should intervene and conduct a thorough search for Godwin.
- Investigation and Measures for Corps Members’ Safety: The IGP, NYSC DG, and security agencies should investigate the case and ensure safety measures for corps members in host communities.
- Presidential Directive: President Bola Tinubu should direct state governments and security agencies to provide maximum security and adequate facilities for youth corps members.
The NYSC DG has assured efforts are ongoing to secure the release of kidnapped corps members ² ³. The House’s directive aims to ensure Godwin’s safe return and improve security for all corps members.
