2026: Shun Local Politics, NYSC Warns Corps Members
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has cautioned corps members deployed for the 2026 service year to stay away from local politics and partisan political activities, warning that violations attract serious sanctions.
Contents
NYSC’s Position
NYSC officials reiterated that the scheme is strictly non-partisan, established to promote national unity, discipline, and community development—not political engagement. Corps members are therefore prohibited from:
- Campaigning for political parties or candidates
- Attending partisan rallies or strategy meetings
- Acting as agents for politicians or political groups
- Using NYSC uniforms, IDs, or platforms for political purposes
- Making inflammatory political statements capable of disrupting peace
According to the scheme, these restrictions apply throughout the service year, including orientation camp, primary assignment, community development service (CDS), and passing-out periods.
Why the Warning Matters
The caution comes amid heightened political activities at local and state levels ahead of elections. NYSC stressed that corps members, as guests in host communities, must maintain neutrality and professionalism to avoid security risks and preserve the integrity of the scheme.
Sanctions for Defaulters
NYSC warned that corps members who flout the directive risk penalties such as:
- Disciplinary action by the scheme
- Extension of service year
- Withholding of certificates
- Prosecution, where actions violate existing laws
What Corps Members Should Do Instead
NYSC encouraged corps members to focus on:
- Their primary assignments
- Community Development Service (CDS) projects
- Promoting peace, tolerance, and civic responsibility without partisan bias
- Obeying all NYSC rules and host community laws
NYSC’s Advice
Corps members were advised to remain vigilant, avoid being used by political actors, and report any attempts to lure them into political activities to NYSC officials or security agencies.
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FAQs
1. Can corps members vote during elections?
Yes. Voting is a civic right, but corps members must not engage in partisan activities beyond lawful voting.
2. Are corps members allowed to serve as election officials?
Yes. Corps members may serve as ad hoc staff for INEC when officially engaged, but must remain neutral.
3. Does the ban include social media political posts?
Yes. Using social media to promote parties or candidates can be considered partisan activity and is prohibited.
4. What should a corps member do if pressured by politicians?
Politely decline and report immediately to NYSC authorities or security agencies.
5. Does the rule apply during CDS activities?
Absolutely. All NYSC activities must remain non-partisan at all times.
