NYSC denies claims of issuing queries to 200 Oyo corps members, clarifying allegations about a Christmas carol are false and baseless.
The organization clarified that the accusations are baseless and unrelated to religious activities.
Recent reports, particularly from some online platforms, claimed that the corps members serving in Atiba Local Government Area were penalized for not attending a Christmas carol held on December 20, 2024.
However, NYSC spokesperson Eddy Megwa dismissed these claims in a statement issued on Friday, describing them as false and misleading.
Clarification on the queries
Megwa explained that the issued queries were not connected to the Christmas carol. Instead, they addressed the failure of the corps members to fulfill mandatory duties.
These duties include participation in their Community Development Service (CDS) activities and presence during the December 2024 headcount.
The headcount was conducted to verify the number of corps members available during the holiday season.
“For clarity, the affected corps members in Atiba did not participate in their scheduled CDS activities and were absent during the December 2024 headcount. They were also not present at their respective places of primary assignment,” Megwa stated.
Furthermore, she noted that the corps members traveled outside the state without obtaining prior written permission from the NYSC Oyo State Coordinator.
This violation occurred between December 16, 2024, and January 6, 2025. According to Megwa, the NYSC’s rules and regulations require proper authorization for travel during service.
Adherence to NYSC bylaws
Megwa emphasized that the scheme operates strictly within the boundaries of its bylaws. These rules guide corps members’ conduct throughout their service year.
She explained that the queries issued by the Local Government Inspector were corrective measures intended to ensure compliance with the scheme’s regulations. The organization does not discriminate against religious practices or beliefs.
“The NYSC respects the religious rights of all corps members and remains committed to fostering unity and tolerance,” she added.
Mandatory service activities
Megwa reiterated the importance of mandatory weekly and monthly CDS activities for corps members.
Participation in these activities is a critical requirement for obtaining the Certificate of National Service.
The NYSC considers these engagements essential to fostering community involvement and national development.
“The activities are designed to instill discipline, responsibility, and a sense of service among corps members,” Megwa explained. Failure to adhere to these obligations attracts penalties, as outlined in the NYSC’s guidelines.
NYSC calls for balanced reporting
In addressing the reports, Megwa criticized the online publications for their inaccurate and sensationalized content. She urged the public to disregard such misleading information, which she described as an attempt to stir unnecessary religious tension.
“The NYSC has an open-door policy with the press and encourages balanced and factual reporting of its activities,” she said.
Megwa also appealed to journalists and media outlets to verify their information before publication. She stressed the importance of accurate reporting in preserving the integrity of the NYSC and its role in national unity.
Conclusion
The NYSC has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting unity and tolerance among corps members.
It called on the public to trust its procedures and policies, which are designed to support the personal and professional growth of corps members.
The organization remains focused on its mission to foster national cohesion through service and community development.
By addressing these allegations head-on, the scheme has demonstrated its dedication to transparency and fairness.
Corps members and the public are encouraged to engage with the scheme constructively and to adhere to its established rules and regulations.
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