Kidnapped corps member narrates ordeal after release

Miss Abasifreke Joseph, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who was abducted on January 9 along the Enugu-Ezike Road while traveling to Kogi, has recounted her harrowing experience in captivity.

Joseph, who was released on January 13, shared her ordeal in Abak, Akwa Ibom State, during a visit from the NYSC Coordinator for Akwa Ibom, Mr. Sam Pepple, on Sunday.

She revealed that she endured torture and extreme hunger at the hands of her captors, describing the conditions as both physically and emotionally traumatizing.

She said: ” I spent five days and five nights at the kidnappers’ den without water and food.

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The corps member said that she and other hostages were beaten, left without food and dispossessed of their mobile phones and other valuables

“I was posted to Kogi for national youth service, I reported at the orientation camp, and was sworn in on Nov. 29, 2024.

“I became sick while the orientation course was ongoing, so I got the permission and approval of the Camp Director to travel home for medical attention.

“I was returning to Kogi on Jan. 9, the incident happened at about 4.30p.m along Enugu-Ezike Road in Igbo Eze North Local Government Area,” she said.

Joseph said that while the journey was ongoing, a motorcycle rider broke the news of armed robbery attack in front.

“Surprisingly, the driver of our bus did not listen, he kept going forward until we met the kidnappers.

“When they started shooting, our driver quickly came down from the vehicle, opened the door and asked us to run into the bush.

“It also surprised us that the kidnappers asked our driver to go unhurt, he was not taking hostage,” she said

She expressed her appreciation to the NYSC scheme for its prompt response and solidarity during her ordeal

Earlier, Pepple, thanked God for sparing the corps member’s life, and expressed the commitment of the NYSC scheme towards the safety of members.

“As soon as we were informed of the incident, we swung into action to ensure her safe release. We are happy that she is back with her family.

“The NYSC is a responsible organisation, we ensure adequate care for our members. We treat corps members as our children, so NYSC knows what to do for her.

“I have seen her, she is in high spirit, and in good condition, which is different from what is being reported on the social media,” he said.