A serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Safwan Fade, has been brutally beaten to death by hoodlums in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident, which occurred at a local stadium, has sent shockwaves across the community and raised concerns about the safety of corps members serving in various parts of the country.
The Attack and Immediate Aftermath
Safwan Fade, who was serving at the Federal College of Education in Pankshin, was reportedly attacked by a group of hoodlums on January 22, 2025. The assailants stormed the Pankshin township stadium, where they assaulted Fade, leaving him severely injured. Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying scene, describing how the young corps member was overpowered and mercilessly beaten.
The Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, confirmed the incident during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Jos. He revealed that the police received a report of the attack on January 23, 2025, at about 7:00 a.m. from one Umbule Boreng Reuben, a resident of Pankshin. According to the report, Fade was attacked the previous evening at around 6:00 p.m.
Upon receiving the report, the Commissioner immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Pankshin to lead a team of officers to the scene. Fade was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Although he was initially declared stable by the attending doctor, his condition deteriorated due to complications, prompting his transfer to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH). Tragically, Fade succumbed to his injuries and passed away during treatment.
Arrest of Suspects and Ongoing Investigation
In the wake of the attack, the Plateau State Police Command launched a thorough investigation to apprehend the perpetrators. Two suspects, Samuel Dang Kat and Zatshinen Wubwerwe, were identified and arrested in connection with the crime. The police have also intensified efforts to track down other suspects who are currently at large.
Commissioner Adesina assured the public that the suspects would be charged to court as soon as the investigation is concluded. He emphasized the Command’s commitment to ensuring justice for the deceased and his family. “We will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice,” Adesina stated.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the Command had recorded significant operational successes in recent times, including the arrest of 24 suspects for various offenses. He attributed these achievements to the cooperation of law-abiding citizens and the relentless efforts of the police force.
Community Reactions and Calls for Justice
The tragic death of Safwan Fade has sparked outrage among residents of Pankshin and beyond. Many have taken to social media to express their grief and demand justice for the slain corps member. The NYSC community, in particular, has been deeply affected by the incident, with calls for increased security measures to protect corps members serving in volatile areas.
A fellow corps member, who preferred to remain anonymous, described Fade as a dedicated and hardworking individual who was passionate about his service to the nation. “Safwan was a kind and selfless person who always put others first. His death is a huge loss to all of us,” the corps member said.
Broader Implications for Corps Member Safety
This incident has reignited discussions about the safety and welfare of NYSC members deployed to various parts of Nigeria. Over the years, there have been several reports of corps members facing harassment, assault, and even death in the line of duty. Many have called for a review of the NYSC scheme, particularly in terms of the deployment process and the provision of adequate security for participants.
In response to the tragedy, the NYSC management has issued a statement condemning the attack and promising to work closely with the police to ensure justice is served. The scheme also urged corps members to remain vigilant and report any security concerns to the appropriate authorities.
Police Assurance and Public Cooperation
Commissioner Adesina used the opportunity to commend the residents of Plateau State for their cooperation in the fight against crime. He also acknowledged the role of the media in educating the public and fostering a strong alliance against criminal elements.
“The support of the media and the publicity given to police activities have been tremendous. The public is better informed and educated on the good intentions of the police towards them and the need to form a strong alliance against men of the underworld,” Adesina said.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to serving the people of Plateau State and ensuring their safety. “We are poised to serve you better. The gallant, professional, and indefatigable police officers of the Command will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace and security in the state,” he added.
Conclusion
The brutal killing of Safwan Fade is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by young Nigerians serving their country through the NYSC scheme. As the investigation continues, there is a growing demand for concrete measures to protect corps members and prevent such tragedies in the future. The Plateau State Police Command has assured the public that justice will be served, but the incident underscores the need for a broader conversation about the safety and welfare of Nigeria’s youth.
The death of Safwan Fade is not just a loss to his family and friends but to the entire nation. His story serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize the security and well-being of young Nigerians who are committed to serving their country.
