The National Youth Service Corps has expressed grief over the death of a female corps member in Abeokuta, Ogun State, following complications linked to an alleged abortion.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the NYSC Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, confirmed that a staff member is currently under investigation in connection with the incident.
She stated that the scheme was “deeply saddened by the loss of a Corps Member… under circumstances that are currently being investigated.”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and pray for the peaceful repose of her soul,” the NYSC said.
The organisation added that “the matter is currently under investigation by relevant security agencies, and the individual concerned has been taken into custody.
“We wish to use this medium to reiterate that the NYSC maintains a strict code of conduct for its staff and corps members and will not condone any act of misconduct or abuse of office.”
The scheme also confirmed that it is fully cooperating with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the truth is uncovered and justice is served, while urging the public to avoid speculation and allow due process to run its course.
“In the meantime, management wishes to state, once again, that the welfare, safety, and dignity of our corps members remain paramount to the scheme,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has arrested the Abeokuta South Local Government Inspector of the NYSC, Abbas Olalekan, in connection with the death of the corps member.
The police spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the arrest, stating that investigations are ongoing to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the incident.
“I can confirm to you that the man has been arrested and investigations are ongoing to unravel both the remote and immediate causes of the death,” he said.
Sources alleged that the official and the deceased were in a relationship, which reportedly resulted in a pregnancy. It was further alleged that the suspect announced her death and mobilised corps members to arrange her burial, with her remains said to have been interred at Kobape Cemetery along the Kobape-Sagamu Road in Abeokuta.
Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be carried out to establish the facts surrounding the case.
What you should know
The death of the corps member has raised serious concerns about welfare, safety, and accountability within the NYSC system.
With a staff member already in custody, the case highlights the importance of strict oversight and adherence to ethical standards among officials.
The involvement of law enforcement signals that authorities are treating the matter with urgency, while the NYSC’s response underscores its commitment to protecting corps members and ensuring justice is served.
