A mother of a prospective [National Youth Service Corps](https://www.nysc.gov.ng) (NYSC) member abducted in Imo State said she managed to collect and deliver a ₦3 million ransom to the kidnappers, hoping to ensure her child's safe return. The incident occurred six days before she spoke to the media, while the youths were travelling from Ibadan, Oyo State, to orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states.
**How much money was paid?**
The distraught mother explained that she ran from one place to another, borrowing and selling assets, until she could gather the full amount. "I paid as much as ₦3 million as ransom while I was hoping that nothing happened to my child. I ran helter‑skelter to raise the money. I eventually got the money and sent someone to deliver the ransom directly to them," she recounted.
**What is the broader impact on families?**
All 20 parents have voiced the emotional and financial strain caused by the kidnapping, describing sleepless nights and the pressure of meeting the kidnappers' demands. The abduction took place six days prior to the mother’s interview, leaving the remaining families desperate for any lead on their children's whereabouts.
**What steps are being taken?**
Authorities in [Imo State](https://www.immostate.gov.ng) have been alerted, and investigations are ongoing to locate the missing corps members and bring the perpetrators to justice. Meanwhile, families continue to pool resources and seek assistance from community networks to meet any further ransom requests.
The episode underscores the growing security challenges faced by young Nigerians traveling for NYSC duties and highlights the heavy burden placed on families when kidnappings occur.