By Douglas Princemola
The Imo NANS Comrade Community has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the relevant authorities, demanding urgent action over the death of Comrade Okebaram Stanley Chimaroke, an indigene of Orodo in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, who was serving under the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Bassambiri, Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The student body made its position known following a condolence visit to the bereaved family on August 1, 2026, where members expressed sympathy over the tragic loss and called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the corps member’s death.
According to the group, Chimaroke’s body was reportedly recovered near a river in his host community. It said the incident has left family members, friends, fellow corps members, and the student community in shock, with many demanding that the facts surrounding the case be made public.
The association stated that, despite the passage of time, it is not aware of any official announcement regarding arrests, identified suspects, or meaningful progress in the investigation. It said the absence of clear information has continued to fuel concern among students and members of the public.
Describing the development as deeply troubling, the group urged the Nigeria Police Force, the NYSC, the Bayelsa State Government, the Imo State Government, the leadership of the Bassambiri Community, and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to work together to ensure that the investigation is transparent, professional, and free from interference.
The Imo NANS Comrade Community warned that if no visible progress is made within seven days, it will explore every lawful and constitutional means available to press for justice and accountability.
It also expressed concern over reports that the deceased’s family had not yet been granted access to view his remains. According to the association, if the reports are accurate, the situation has added to the emotional burden of a family already mourning the loss of a loved one.
The group stressed that the death of any corps member while serving the nation should never be treated with indifference. It called on the authorities to demonstrate that every Nigerian life is valued by conducting a diligent investigation and keeping the public informed of genuine progress.
The association further appealed to residents of Bassambiri, fellow corps members, community leaders, and anyone with credible information that could assist investigators to come forward and cooperate with the appropriate security agencies.
It noted that justice can only be achieved through a careful and impartial investigation, urging all parties to avoid speculation while allowing law enforcement agencies to carry out their responsibilities.
The Imo NANS Comrade Community said it would continue to monitor developments closely and stand with the family of the late Chimaroke until the circumstances surrounding his death are fully established.
The group concluded by insisting that those responsible, where sufficient evidence exists, should be brought before the law, adding that justice delayed must not become justice denied.
