NYSC Member Rofiat Lawal Kidnapped on Benin-Ore Expressway, Abductors Demand N20 Million Ransom

Rofiat Lawal

A member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving in Ibadan, Oyo State, Rofiat Lawal, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen along the Benin-Ore Expressway.

According to reports from social media user Agba Kwara, Lawal was abducted on Tuesday while returning from Benin, Edo State, to report at her place of primary assignment in Ogbomosho, Oyo State. The kidnappers are allegedly demanding a ransom of ₦20 million for her release.

Sharing the harrowing details on social media, Agba Kwara wrote:

“My close friend, Lawal Rofiat Kofoworola, was kidnapped on her way from Benin to Ibadan to resume her PPA in Ogbomosho. She managed to call yesterday and told me she was inside an Ore-bound bus when she was taken.

“This is someone who has struggled all her life, supporting herself through university by working at the Dufil company in Benin. Now, kidnappers are demanding ₦20 million, and we don’t know what to do. Her parents are less privileged and can’t afford this.

“I have reported to the NYSC secretariat in Ibadan and dropped her call-up number, but there has been no response. We are exhausted and desperate for help! Please, Nigerians, I need your support. If there is any way you can assist by spreading this message, reaching the authorities, or any help at all, please do. She has been my close friend since my 100 level, and I haven’t been myself since this happened.”

Confirming the incident, the Oyo State NYSC Coordinator, Odoba Oche, stated that Lawal’s parents reported the case to the NYSC on Wednesday. Following this, security operatives and relevant NYSC authorities in Ondo and Edo states have been alerted to take necessary action.

“We were not aware of the incident before her parents reported it to us. We have since contacted the National Headquarters, the Ondo and Edo State NYSC offices, and have also alerted security agencies,” Oche said.

When asked about the ransom demand, he stated, “I am not aware if the kidnappers have reached out to demand ransom.”

Oche also noted that Lawal had traveled home to Benin without notifying NYSC authorities, a move that goes against the organization’s travel advisory for corps members.

“NYSC has continued to emphasize the need for corps members to always notify authorities before traveling and to also avoid night travels,” he stressed.

The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many calling on security agencies to intensify efforts in securing her safe release.