Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The National Youth Service Corps has dismissed as entirely false an online publication alleging that its members are being paid ₦50,000 to influence the outcome of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State. In a statement released on Thursday, the NYSC described the allegation as "misleading and without factual basis," while reaffirming its commitment to remaining a non-partisan institution. The Scheme said it did not authorise, coordinate, supervise, or have knowledge of any such payment for political or unlawful purposes.
The denial comes just a day after a civil society organisation, the Osun Youth Coalition for Credible Elections, raised the alarm over alleged attempts to compromise corps members ahead of the election. The group had claimed that a prominent individual in the state was collecting bank account details of corps members with the intention of transferring ₦50,000 to them before the poll. The coalition called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the Independent National Electoral Commission to immediately investigate the allegations.
In its rejoinder, the NYSC maintained that corps members are consistently reminded to remain apolitical and to comply with the NYSC Act, Bye-Laws, and all electoral guidelines. The Scheme said it is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safety and welfare of corps members before, during, and after the election. The Osun State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, has also been sensitising corps members to remain neutral, reject inducements, safeguard electoral materials, and discharge their duties in accordance with the Electoral Act and INEC regulations.
The NYSC's strong rebuttal comes amid heightened political tensions ahead of the Osun governorship election, which is widely regarded as a key test of Nigeria's electoral integrity. Corps members, who serve as ad hoc election officials, are considered critical to the credibility of the process. Both INEC and the NYSC have previously held sensitisation sessions for corps members, emphasising neutrality, integrity, and adherence to electoral guidelines. The NYSC Coordinator had earlier assured stakeholders that corps members would undergo comprehensive training and would be properly briefed and restrained to ensure professional conduct.
In its statement, the NYSC urged the public to disregard the report and called on media organisations to verify information with the appropriate authorities before publication. The Scheme reiterated its commitment to national unity, discipline, and selfless service, adding that corps members are "our children" and must be treated with dignity and care. As the August 15 election draws closer, the NYSC's denial, coupled with calls for an EFCC probe by civil society groups, underscores the intense scrutiny over the integrity of the electoral process and the role of young Nigerians entrusted with sensitive electoral responsibilities.
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