The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the abduction of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Kogi State while commending security agencies for their swift response and rescue operation.

The corps members were reportedly abducted on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, while travelling from the NYSC orientation camp in Bayelsa State towards Abuja.

The victims were intercepted by armed men along the Ofu/Itobe–Onicha-Igo road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, raising fresh concerns over the safety of young Nigerians travelling to their places of primary assignment.

Reacting to the incident, HURIWA described the abduction as unacceptable and called for stronger measures to protect corps members and other travellers using vulnerable highways across the country.

The organisation, however, commended the security agencies involved in the subsequent rescue operation, describing the recovery of the abducted corps members as a welcome development.

HURIWA urged the authorities to ensure that the operation remains focused on securing the victims’ safety while also tracking down and prosecuting those responsible for the attack.

HURIWA said the incident highlights the need for the Federal Government to review the way corps members are transported across the country, particularly when they are required to travel through areas with known security risks.

The organisation argued that corps members should not be exposed unnecessarily to dangerous routes and called for improved security escorts and safer transportation arrangements.

It also urged the government to consider alternative transportation options, including air travel where necessary, for corps members travelling from high-risk areas.

According to HURIWA, protecting participants in the national service scheme should be treated as a national security responsibility.

Beyond the rescue operation, HURIWA called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction.

The organisation said security agencies should identify those behind the attack, arrest them and ensure that they face prosecution.

HURIWA also urged authorities to strengthen surveillance and security operations along major highways frequently used by NYSC members and other travellers.

While commending the security agencies for the rescue efforts, the rights group said the incident should serve as a warning to the government to take preventive measures rather than wait for attacks to occur before responding.

HURIWA maintained that young Nigerians serving their country deserve adequate protection and should be able to travel to their places of assignment without fear of abduction or violence.