The Lagos State House of Assembly condemned the kidnapping of Prospective Corps Member Binuyo Lateefah on Thursday, calling for prompt intergovernmental and security cooperation to ensure her safe return.
This followed a matter of urgent public significance raised by member Omolara Olumegbon, who informed the House that the victim was kidnapped on January 22, 2026, along the Kogi axis while on her way to Taraba State for a National Youth Service Corps assignment.
She revealed that the abductors were demanding a ransom of N30 million.
Olumegbon encouraged the House to write to the Federal Government to improve security measures for PCMs traveling to their various deployment locations.
She also urged the House to formally request that Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu assist by liaising with the Kogi State Government to secure the victim’s safe rescue.
In his contribution, legislator Noheem Adams praised President Bola Tinubu for his dedication to improving the security of people and property across the country, stating that the current security situation has improved significantly in comparison to previous administrations.
Ogundipe Stephen, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, praised the Nigerian military’s efforts to protect national security while emphasizing the need for increased action.
Ogundipe urged the Lagos State Governor to contact his Kogi State counterpart to facilitate prompt intervention.
In addition, legislator Tobun Abiodun urged that the House, through the National Assembly, write to the NYSC Director-General to evaluate deployment protocols, particularly the posting of PCMs to remote and high-risk regions, in order to reduce exposure to needless dangers.
In his ruling, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa described the incident as deeply disheartening, noting that at a time when some people were unwilling to pursue education, it was painful that young Nigerians who had completed their studies and were ready to serve the country were being threatened with kidnapping.
He emphasized the importance of involving the NYSC Director-General in the role of ensuring the safety and security of PCMs from the moment of departure to their sites of deployment and return to their families.
Obasa also stated that, while he was confident that the Governor of Lagos State had already taken action on the matter, efforts should be stepped up by liaising with the Kogi State Government, as suggested by members, and formally writing to the Inspector-General of Police to intervene in the case and prevent future occurrences.
When contacted on Thursday, the Kogi State Police Command verified Binuyo’s abduction and stated that attempts were underway to secure her release.
“Yes, I am aware. I can’t disclose details… Efforts are being made to secure her release,” the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, Saliu Afusat, said.
