The House of Representatives has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, to urgently launch a search and rescue mission for corps member Okeke Chukwuemeka Godwin, who has been missing for nearly six months.
According to reports from LIB, Okeke disappeared on May 9, 2024, while serving in Akure, Ondo State.
During Thursday’s plenary session, the House adopted a motion of urgent public importance put forward by Mr. Nnolim Nnaji, representing the Nkanu East/West Federal Constituency of Enugu State.
In presenting the motion, Nnaji highlighted that Godwin, a native of Umuanyi Village, Ovuorie, Ugbawka Community in Nkanu East Local Government Area, was an exceptional student, graduating with a Second Class Upper in Computer Science from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State.
Nnaji explained that Godwin was due to complete his NYSC service on June 17, 2024, but went missing on May 9, 2024. His parents lost contact with him on that day, as his mobile phone was unreachable.
On May 13, 2024, Godwin’s mother, Mrs. Okeke Patience, and his younger brother traveled to Akure to search for him. They visited his place of work and residence but were unable to gather any useful information.
“The family reported his disappearance to the Nigerian Police (Ijakpo Police Division), who notified other police stations and the Ondo State Police Headquarters for further investigation. However, despite some interrogations, the family has not been properly informed of any progress in the case,” Nnaji said.
“The family also contacted local NYSC officials, community leaders, and the state government, yet the case remains unresolved with no substantial information leading to his recovery,” he added.
Nnaji noted that on June 19, 2024, Godwin’s mother, accompanied by two relatives and a journalist, visited the Ondo State Police Command and NYSC offices. A documentary was later produced by Trust Television, covering the family’s ordeal.
He further criticized the lack of leadership shown by the state’s Commissioner of Police and the NYSC state coordinator in addressing the situation.
The House, after adopting the motion unanimously, directed the IGP, the NYSC DG, and other security agencies to thoroughly investigate the case and put in place measures to ensure the safety of corps members in all host communities.
Additionally, the House urged the IGP to lead an intensive search and rescue operation for Godwin, acknowledging the profound emotional toll his disappearance has taken on his family, particularly his mother.