The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on appropriate authorities and security agencies to take immediate measures to secure the release of Binuyo Lateefah, a prospective Corps Member.
This request arose during Thursday's plenary when Mrs. Omolara Olumegbon, the Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs, brought up a matter of urgent public concern.
As stated by Olumegbon, Lateefah, who graduated in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, was kidnapped on January 22, 2026, while traveling through the Kogi region en route to Taraba State for her National Youth Service Corps assignment.
Olumegbon reported that the kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N30 million for her release.
She urged the Assembly to send a communication to the Federal Government to enhance security protocols for the Corps Members traveling to their deployment states.
Additionally, she recommended that the House formally reach out to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to coordinate efforts with the Kogi State Government for the safe return of the abduction victim.
In his remarks, lawmaker Noheem Adams praised President Bola Tinubu for his dedication to advancing the security of lives and properties across Nigeria, noting a noticeable improvement in security compared to earlier administrations.
Ogundipe Stephen, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, commended the Nigerian military for their role in national security but called for increased efforts.
He urged the Governor of Lagos State to collaborate with his Kogi State counterpart to ensure a quick response to the situation.
Lawmaker Tobun Abiodun proposed that the House should contact the Director- General of the NYSC through the National Assembly to address deployment strategies, especially regarding sending Corps Members to remote and dangerous locations, to reduce preventable risks.
Speaker Mudashiru Obasa described the occurrence as deeply concerning, emphasizing that, at a time when some individuals hesitate to pursue education, it was tragic that young Nigerians, who had completed their studies and were prepared to serve their nation, were facing dangers like kidnapping.
He reiterated the importance of engaging with the NYSC Director-General to ensure the safety of Corps Members from the moment they travel to their assigned locations until they return to their families.
Obasa further expressed confidence that the Lagos State Governor had already initiated actions regarding the matter but highlighted the necessity for sustained efforts alongside the Kogi State Government and proposed formally writing to the Inspector-General of Police to intervene in this case and prevent future incidents.
Meanwhile, Saliu Afusat, the spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, confirmed the kidnapping of Binuyo and noted that measures were underway to facilitate her release.
"Yes, I am aware. I can’t disclose details. Efforts are being made to secure her release," she stated.
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