By Demola Atobaba, Ado-Ekiti
Corps members deployed to Ekiti state have been warned against engaging in local politics of their host communities due to the implications therein.
The director-general, NYSC, Brigadier General S. Ibrahim, stated this at the terminal parade/closing ceremony of the 2021 Batch ‘B’ stream II orientation course held at the NYSC permanent camp in Ose-Orun/ Emure Ekiti.
According to him, engaging in the local politics of their host communities is a no-go-area, urging the corps members to adhere strictly to the directive.
Represented by the state coordinator, Mrs Mary Chikezie, the DG urged the corps members to be conscious of the implications of their action or inaction on the image of their families, the NYSC and their institutions of graduation.
His words: “My dear compatriots, the next phase of the service year is of great significance as the entire nation looks up to you for your expected roles in advancing the unity and development of our fatherland.
“I, therefore, enjoin you to sustain the spirit of patriotism, hard work and resilience, which you have imbibed during the orientation course. I enjoin you to add value to the communities by undertaking personal and group Community Development Service projects that will uplift their living standards.
“I encourage you to build on the skills acquired by availing yourselves of opportunities for post-camp training. On our part, we will continue to strengthen our partnership with relevant stakeholders with a view to optimizing the impact of the programme.
The NYSC DG assured the corps members of adequate security but urged them to be security conscious at all times.
“In particular, I advise you to avoid risky engagements such as staying out late at night, attendance of late-night parties, visitation of dangerous places, and acceptance of car ride from strangers. Shun drug abuse and trafficking, cybercrime, advanced-fee-fraud, and other vices.
“Furthermore, I would like to reiterate our warning against unauthorized journeys and night trips. Statistics by relevant agencies have shown that night travel is a major risk factor for road traffic accident while such timing may also render rescue efforts fruitless.
On this premise, it is now mandatory for all corps members in transit to always cut short their trips from six o’clock in the evening and pass the night at military barracks and other locations officially designated as safe.
“While commending you for complying with the COVID-19 prevention protocols during your stay in camp, I wish to remind you that the virus is still around. You are, therefore, advised to continue to be on your guard everywhere you find yourselves.