AWKA: The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has strongly condemned the assault of one of its members, Jennifer Elobor, by operatives of a local vigilante group in Anambra State.
A viral video showed members of Operation Udo Ga-Achi popularly called the Agunechemba Vigilante Group beating and stripping the corps member in Oba community, Idemili South Local Government Area. The operatives accused her and other corps members of internet fraud.
In a statement issued Wednesday, NYSC Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, described the incident as “unfortunate” and dehumanising, stressing that there was no justification for such an act.
Management strongly condemns the unacceptable manner in which the operatives conducted their operations, irrespective of their initial justification for the purported investigation, the statement read.
The Anambra State Government confirmed on Tuesday that the suspects had been arrested and were under investigation. NYSC commended the move and pledged to support the ongoing police probe to ensure justice.
The scheme also disclosed that it has begun necessary administrative processes to help the assaulted corps member manage both the psychological and physiological trauma caused by the attack.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has demanded the prosecution of those responsible, describing the assault as inhumane.
In a joint statement signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe and National Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, the association commended the Anambra government for swiftly arresting the suspects but insisted that prosecution
tion must follow. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, to serve as redress for Ms. Elobor and deterrence against similar abuses in the future,” the NBA said.
The incident has drawn widespread outrage, with human rights advocates, lawyers, and civil society groups calling for stricter oversight of local security outfits operating in Nigerian communities.
