The Ilorin West Local Government Area has debunked a report by Sahara Reporters alleging that corps members serving within the council are compelled to pay a monthly ₦2,500 “newspaper fee.”
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Abdulgafar Abayomi, the council described the report as inaccurate and misleading, stressing that no official of the local government has at any time imposed such a levy on members of the National Youth Service Corps posted to the area.
The council, under the leadership of Shehu AbdulRahman Babatunde Ladan, clarified that it has never charged corps members any form of levy and maintains no administrative authority over NYSC financial activities.
According to the statement, corps members occasionally organise initiatives such as the production of their annual NYSC magazine, which is a voluntary project managed by the corps members themselves as part of their service year activities.
It noted that the local government only maintains a cordial relationship with corps members serving in the area through the NYSC structure, mainly for monitoring and supervisory purposes, without compelling them to participate in any financial contribution.
The council further emphasised its commitment to the welfare of corps members, stating that it consistently ensures the prompt payment of the monthly allowance due to those serving under the local government.
Ilorin West Local Government therefore urged members of the public to disregard the report, assuring residents that it will continue to uphold transparency, fairness, and a supportive relationship with corps members posted to the council.