2023 Poll:  NYSC Seeks INEC Assurances on Corps Members’ Safety

By Praise Chinecherem

The National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) in Anambra State has said it would not allow corps member in the state to be  deployed to insecurity prone areas during forthcoming general elections.

State Coordinator, Mrs Ekene Iruma made the disclosure during the cultural carnival at the Permanent Orientation Camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area of the state.

She said the management had written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) informing her of  flashpoints where it would not want corps members be deployed without assurances of their security and welfare.

She said, “The security and welfare of corps members is very important to us and it’s the major key agenda of the Director General. We won’t want them posted to violent and flashpoints areas without adequate security assurance from INEC.

“In the letter we wrote to INEC, we want them to take cognizance of those areas and expect them to tell us how the corps members will be protected to ensure their welfare and security are not endangered during the elections.”

Iruma said the cultural carnival offered the corps members opportunity to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage and to educate them on the implications of culture and traditions.

“Most of our youth don’t even know their values and culture. We do this to promote our culture so that the youth can know the importance and gains of having them” she said.

Earlier, Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Entertainment, Don Onyenji urged corps members to accept their postings in good faith and not to insist on so-called juicy areas or organizations.

“Our people are hospitable and are eagerly waiting for you. While they assist you, on their part, you need to commit yourselves to making a change in your host communities.

“Good impressions last for a long time. Try to blend with your community and be friendly to them because a friend you meet during your service may be of great substance to your life in future,” he added.