N6 argued that the presence of soldiers in NYSC orientation camps discouraged cult activities and violent behaviour.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigerian rapper, media personality, and radio broadcaster Nnamdi Nwabasili, better known as N6, has weighed in on ongoing conversations surrounding proposed reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The Nigerian government recently approved the first holistic and comprehensive review of the scheme since its introduction 53 years ago.
Among the package of reforms is a new graduation ceremony to replace the Passing Out Parade, as well as a redesigned NYSC uniform that will reflect professionalism and national pride.
Apart from this, under the new reforms, the scheme will now be headed by a civilian Director-General instead of a serving military officer.
Reacting to the development on Thursday via his official X page, N6 expressed fears over reports that military drills could be removed from orientation camps.
He warned that such a move, if implemented, could expose corps members to serious security risks and weaken the level of discipline traditionally associated with the three-week orientation exercise.
READ ALSO: 53 years later, NYSC to get new uniform and graduation ceremony as FEC approves reforms
He further argued that the military’s presence has served as more than just physical training, insisting it has also discouraged cult activities and violent behaviour within camps.
He noted that military officers have played a silent but significant role in maintaining order among thousands of young graduates posted from different parts of the country.
”Take the Military out of the NYSC camp and cultists will have a field day there. Dem go kpai people shege,” he wrote.
The artist added that some orientation camps could become unsafe for graduates from certain backgrounds if discipline weakens.
”Certain camps will become no-go areas for graduates from certain groups. Everywhere go begin hot,” he further noted.
Continuing his argument, N6 asked Nigerians to reflect on the history of the NYSC orientation programme, questioning why there have been very few reports of cult-related violence inside orientation camps despite the diverse backgrounds of corps members.
”Have you ever heard of a cult clash in an NYSC camp? Why do you think so?” he asked.
