ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Nigerian Senate has initiated a comprehensive inquiry into the tragic passing of Etimbuk Daniel, a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who died at an orientation camp in Enugu State. The call for investigation was publicly made during a plenary session on Thursday by Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East (APC), who urged for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the young corps member's death.
Concerns Over Healthcare Provision at NYSC Camps
Senator Bassey conveyed the Senate's profound shock and sorrow upon learning of Daniel's death while he was undergoing the compulsory national service programme in Enugu. He paid tribute to the deceased, describing him as an outstanding student leader and a former President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) at Akwa Ibom State University, who had recently embarked on his national service with a promising future.
A significant concern highlighted by Senator Bassey revolves around reports suggesting that Daniel succumbed to complications arising from what was initially a minor headache. These reports allege that there were considerable delays in him receiving adequate medical attention at the camp’s clinic. This incident has raised widespread anxieties concerning the standard of healthcare services provided across NYSC orientation camps throughout the country.
Specifically, the senator pointed to potential deficiencies in the availability of qualified medical personnel, the functionality of medical facilities, and the effectiveness of emergency referral systems within these camps. He contended that such reported lapses necessitate an urgent review of healthcare provision in all orientation camps to prevent similar tragedies and ensure the protection of all corps members.
Senator Bassey underscored the government's constitutional obligation to safeguard the welfare of its citizens, affirming that young graduates mobilised for national service are entitled to comprehensive medical care throughout their period of service.
Senate's Response: Investigation and Accountability
The untimely death of Etimbuk Daniel has plunged his family, the Akwa Ibom State University community, and the entire state into deep mourning. Supporting the motion, Senator Mohammed Monguno, representing Borno North (APC), emphasised the critical importance of establishing the precise circumstances surrounding Daniel’s death and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
In a solemn tribute, the Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the deceased and offered prayers for his family to find strength during their immense loss. The legislative body collectively resolved to launch a rigorous investigation to ascertain all facts pertaining to Daniel’s death and to determine if any form of negligence contributed to this tragic incident.
To facilitate this, the Senate has instructed its committees on Police, Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Youth Development, and Health to collaborate with the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) in conducting a robust and impartial inquiry into the matter.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the proceedings, thanked Senator Bassey for bringing such a vital issue to the attention of the Senate and reiterated the urgency for the relevant committees to carry out a diligent and comprehensive investigation, ensuring justice is served.