Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has finally broken his silence on the abduction and subsequent release of 20 prospective corps members kidnapped along the Onitsha-Owerri Road.
The victims, alongside one other person, were abducted by gunmen on the busy highway and held hostage before regaining their freedom on Wednesday.
In a personally signed statement released on Wednesday, Governor Uzodimma lauded security agencies for their swift, coordinated and patriotic intervention that led to the safe rescue of the victims.
He disclosed that the operation was a product of intense collaboration between security outfits, adding that their joint efforts ensured no harm came to the abducted youths.
The governor also extended commendation to the Imo State Government and the Oyo State Government for working closely together to secure the release of the corps members, most of whom are believed to be indigenes of Oyo State heading to orientation camp.
Uzodimma explained that due to the sensitive nature of the incident and the need to protect the lives of the victims, authorities deliberately restricted information in the public domain while rescue efforts were ongoing.
He further praised the parents and families of the abducted prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members for their patience, calmness and prayers throughout the traumatic period.
Governor Uzodimma urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the Federal Government and security architecture, assuring that concerted efforts are being made to tackle the country’s lingering security challenges.
Security in the South-East, particularly along major highways like Onitsha-Owerri Road, has become a growing concern following repeated cases of kidnapping for ransom.
Recall: Security agencies, including the military, Department of State Services (DSS), police and other security formations, have rescued 20 kidnapped prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and another hostage in Imo State.
The victims were freed during an intelligence-driven operation carried out by the security agencies in the South-East state.
Following their rescue, the victims are currently receiving medical attention at a DSS facility, where their condition is being monitored.
The operation shows the continued efforts of security agencies to combat kidnapping and protect citizens across the country.
