An Imo State High Court has scheduled December 16, 2026, for the delivery of its judgment in a case concerning the alleged kidnapping of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. The case, presided over by Justice Emeka Orafu, involves defendants Usman Aliyu, Babangida Aliyu, and Mohamed Ali, who are accused of participating in the abduction of the corps members as they traveled to their orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom States.

The court proceedings took a significant step forward on November 6, 2026, when the defense concluded its case following the testimony of its third witness, Mohammed Ali. Justice Orafu praised both the prosecution and defense for their conduct throughout the trial, indicating a smooth progression of the legal process.

In his testimony, DW3, Mohammed Ali, claimed to be a herdsman from Kogi State, stating that he was unaware of the kidnapping incident. He described his routine of tending to his cattle in Kara, Aba, and mentioned that he was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) while sitting in that area. During cross-examination, he acknowledged having lived in Aba for approximately two years and confirmed his occupation as a herdsman, though he denied entering any forest areas.

The court witnessed a moment of levity when DW3 retracted a prior statement about being beaten before a confessional recording was made, clarifying that while the DSS attempted to intimidate him, he was not physically harmed during the recording process. He also identified one of the other defendants, stating he recognized him from their mosque but did not know the second defendant.

Following the closure of the defense's case, Justice Orafu instructed the defense to submit their briefs within seven days, starting November 7, while the prosecution has five days to respond, beginning November 14. The court will reconvene on November 24, 2026, for the adoption of addresses from both parties, leading up to the final judgment in December.

This case has drawn considerable attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and the involvement of a large group of young individuals preparing for their national service. The outcome of this trial is expected to have implications not only for the defendants but also for the broader conversation around security and safety for youth in Nigeria as they engage in national service activities.