The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has dismissed as false and misleading an online publication alleging that corps members in Osun State are being paid ₦50,000 to influence the forthcoming governorship election.
In a statement issued by the Osun State Public Relations Officer of the Scheme, Mrs. Catherine Otemuyiwa, on behalf of the State Coordinator, Mr. Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, the NYSC described the report as baseless and lacking any factual foundation.
The Scheme stated that it had neither authorised nor coordinated any payment to corps members for political or unlawful purposes, stressing that it had no knowledge of the alleged transaction.
According to the statement, the NYSC remains a strictly non-partisan institution committed to promoting national unity, discipline and selfless service, adding that corps members are regularly reminded of their obligation to remain politically neutral throughout their service year.
The Scheme noted that corps members are consistently sensitised to comply with the provisions of the NYSC Act, the NYSC Bye-Laws, the Electoral Act and all guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) whenever they are engaged for election duties.
The statement further disclosed that the Osun State Coordinator, Mr. Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, has repeatedly advised corps members to reject every form of inducement, maintain neutrality, safeguard sensitive electoral materials and discharge their responsibilities with honesty, professionalism and integrity.
The NYSC also assured the public that it is working closely with relevant security agencies to guarantee the safety and welfare of corps members before, during and after the governorship election.
While urging members of the public to disregard the publication, the Scheme called on media organisations and other stakeholders to verify information from appropriate authorities before publication in order to prevent the spread of misinformation capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process and the NYSC.
The NYSC reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and neutrality in all its activities and pledged continued support for the conduct of peaceful, free and credible elections in line with its statutory responsibilities.
