Suspected vandals have struck the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Permanent Orientation Camp in Issele-Uku, Aniocha North LGA, destroying all electrical installations just days before the commencement of the 2025 Batch B Stream 1 orientation programme.
Delta State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. John Kwaghe, disclosed the development during the swearing-in ceremony of newly deployed corps members, describing it as a major setback that disrupted preparations and temporarily stalled camp operations.
“I regret to inform Your Excellency of a recent unfortunate incident, the vandalisation of all electrical installations within the camp just days before the commencement of the current orientation course,” Kwaghe said.
He explained that the matter had been reported to key stakeholders, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Secretary to the State Government, the Chairman of the NYSC State Governing Board, the Aniocha North Local Government Chairman, and the traditional ruler of Issele-Uku, Obi Agbogidi Nduka.
Kwaghe appealed for urgent intervention to rebuild the camp’s collapsed perimeter fence, which he said had left the facility exposed to security threats and criminal activity.
“It is essential that we all play our roles in safeguarding government facilities, especially in this camp, which is one of the most critical in the state,” he urged.
Despite the setback, Kwaghe reported that 1,374 prospective corps members, 613 males and 761 females, had been successfully registered and fully kitted for the orientation exercise and the Oath of Allegiance.
Responding to the situation, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. ThankGod Trakiriowei, acknowledged the challenges faced by the NYSC and assured that the government was ready to address them promptly.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to providing a safe and conducive environment for corps members to serve and contribute meaningfully during their service year.
“After camp, you will be posted to various communities across the state. Approach your assignments with diligence, empathy, and a sense of purpose,” the governor advised.
He further urged the corps members to shun all forms of social vices, including cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, prostitution, thuggery, kidnapping, and terrorism, and to embrace responsible living as role models in their host communities.
Credit: The Guardian