Parents Reveal Ransom Payments for Abducted NYSC Members Amid Government Denials

The distressing saga surrounding the kidnapping of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Imo State has taken a troubling turn as parents reveal they paid substantial ransoms for their children's freedom. According to the families, the ransom payments varied significantly, with some parents paying as much as N3 million, while others pooled resources to raise N6 million. These payments were made amidst escalating fears for their loved ones’ safety, contradicting assertions by the Nigeria Police Force that the victims were rescued by security agencies on October 7, 2026.

One mother recounted her harrowing experience, stating, “I paid as much as ₦3 million as ransom while I was hoping that nothing happened to my child. I ran helter-skelter to raise the money. I eventually got the money and sent someone to deliver the ransom directly to them.” This sentiment of desperation resonates deeply with many families who felt they had no choice but to comply with the demands of the kidnappers to ensure their children's safe return.

In a similar vein, the father of another abducted youth revealed the collective efforts made by families to secure the release of their children. “We had to converge somewhere in Ibadan, Oyo State, to put the money together. Some of us even changed the money to dollars and sent it to Imo State to meet whoever was coming to pick it,” he explained. While the relief of having their children back is palpable, the financial implications of these ransom payments weigh heavily on the families.

The Imo State government, however, remains adamant that it was unaware of any ransom transactions, claiming the NYSC members were rescued by security forces. This disconnect raises pressing questions about the efficacy of security measures in the region and the ongoing threat posed by kidnappers. As the families celebrate their loved ones' return, they are left grappling with the emotional and financial toll of the ordeal.