Senate orders probe into corps member’s death at Enugu NYSC camp

The Senate has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Comrade Etimbuk Daniel, a corps member at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Enugu State. The decision was made during a session on Thursday, prompted by a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Senator Aniekan Bassey (APC, Akwa Ibom North-East).

Senator Bassey expressed shock over Daniel’s passing, noting that he was a former president of the Students’ Union Government at Akwa Ibom State University who had recently embarked on his national service. Reports suggest that Daniel’s death resulted from complications following a minor headache, with claims of delays in receiving adequate medical care at the camp clinic.

Bassey raised concerns regarding the quality of medical services provided at NYSC camps, specifically questioning the availability of qualified staff, functioning facilities, and emergency response systems. He emphasized the government’s constitutional obligation to ensure the welfare of its citizens, stating that those serving in the NYSC deserve appropriate medical attention.

The senator added that Daniel’s death has deeply affected his family, the university community, and the state of Akwa Ibom.

Support for the motion was voiced by Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North), who called for a comprehensive investigation to establish the facts and ensure accountability in the case.

In response to the motion, the Senate directed its committees on Police, Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Youth Development, and Health, along with the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), to examine potential negligence related to Daniel’s death.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, acknowledged Bassey’s efforts in bringing the issue to light and urged the committees to conduct a thorough investigation.

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