Former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier-General Johnson Tsiga (Rtd), has recounted a harrowing and life-threatening experience during his abduction, revealing chilling details of how his kidnappers used fellow victims as human shields and attempted to assassinate him with a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG).
In a statement issued earlier today, Tsiga opened up about the traumatic ordeal that took place during his abduction, which has captured widespread attention. The retired military officer disclosed that after being captured by a group of armed kidnappers, the assailants forcefully moved him along with several other victims through treacherous terrain, with each step fraught with fear for their lives.
“The kidnappers, with no regard for human life, used the other abductees as shields to protect themselves from any counteraction by security forces,” Tsiga recalled. “What was most chilling was when they attempted to take my life directly by launching a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) aimed at me. It was a terrifying moment, and I feared the worst, but I thank God that I am here today to tell the tale.”
Tsiga, who was in captivity for several days, described the kidnappers as ruthless and determined to make an example of their victims. Despite being in a life-or-death situation, the former NYSC DG credited his military training and mental fortitude for keeping him calm during the traumatic encounter.
The former NYSC DG also shared that he managed to survive the harrowing experience through a combination of sheer luck, divine intervention, and the efforts of security forces who worked tirelessly to secure his release and the safe return of all hostages.
“I cannot express enough gratitude to the security agencies, my family, and all those who supported me during the ordeal. Their efforts were instrumental in ensuring my safe return, and I remain deeply appreciative,” Tsiga added.