NGO Commends DSS for Arrest, Arraignment of Suspected Kidnappers of 20 Imo Corps Members, Four Others

By Ochiaka Ugwu

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA), has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for the arrest and arraignment of five suspects allegedly involved in the kidnapping of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members posted to Imo State and four other persons.

In a press statement released in Abuja on Wednesday, the Founder and National Coordinator of AKH-TRACADA, Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, described the arrest and arraignment as an important step towards ensuring accountability, strengthening public confidence in security institutions and advancing the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes in Nigeria.

According to the statement, the DSS action sends a strong message that criminal activities targeting innocent citizens, including young Nigerians undertaking their national service, must be investigated and addressed through the appropriate legal processes.

“Members of the NYSC contribute significantly to national development by serving in communities across the country. Their safety and welfare must therefore remain a priority for security agencies, government authorities, host communities and all stakeholders,” the statement read.

While commending the DSS for its efforts, AKH-TRACADA called for a thorough investigation and a transparent judicial process to ensure that justice is served in accordance with the law.

The organisation also urged relevant authorities to strengthen security measures around corps members, particularly in areas facing security challenges.

It further called for improved collaboration among security agencies, community leaders and residents to facilitate timely intelligence-sharing, prevent future attacks and ensure that suspected kidnappers are brought to justice.

Reiterating that the protection of lives and the security of corps members are essential to the success of the national service programme, AKH-TRACADA urged the Federal Government and relevant state authorities to continue investing in effective security measures to ensure that no Nigerian is left vulnerable to criminal attacks.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to combating kidnapping, human trafficking, child abuse and drug abuse across Nigeria and beyond, in line with its mandate.

The five suspects were reportedly arraigned before the Justice Oputa High Court in Owerri, Imo State, on Monday over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping of 20 prospective NYSC members and four other persons.