Twenty prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who were kidnapped while traveling from Oyo State to their orientation camp in Abia State have regained their freedom. The group was rescued on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, after spending seven days in captivity following their abduction along the Owerri-Onitsha road in Umunoha, Imo State.

The rescue operation was carried out by a joint team comprising the Nigeria Police Force, the Army, the Department of State Services, and other security agencies. The victims were located and freed around 4:28 PM at Amakohia Ubi Village in Imo State after a series of coordinated search-and-rescue efforts. While the specifics of the operation remain undisclosed, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, confirmed the successful rescue in a statement.

Following their release, the victims were taken for medical examinations and necessary medical attention, as part of the post-rescue procedures. Despite the successful rescue, there has been no information regarding the arrest of the kidnappers, who are still at large. Iniedu noted that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the abduction, with security agencies intensifying operations to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, also confirmed the release of the captives, expressing relief at their safe return. Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, praised the security agencies for their swift action and coordinated approach that led to the safe release of the corps members. In a statement issued by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, the governor emphasized the importance of discretion during the operation to avoid jeopardizing ongoing investigations.

Governor Uzodinma urged citizens to maintain faith in the Federal Government’s ability to tackle the security challenges facing the nation. He expressed gratitude to the families of the victims for their patience during the distressing period and reassured them of the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.

The Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) also commended the successful rescue, with Publicity Secretary Dr. Jones Onwuasoanya praising the bravery and professionalism of the security personnel involved. The party reiterated its commitment to pursuing the abductors relentlessly to ensure the safety of residents and travelers in the state.

The victims were part of a larger group of 30 graduates traveling in two buses from Ibadan to their NYSC orientation camp when they were kidnapped by suspected gunmen. Initially, the abductors demanded a ransom of N50 million per victim, totaling N1 billion, but later reduced the amount to N5 million per person, amounting to N100 million. The parents of the victims had previously appealed to both the Olubadan and the government for their safe return.