The Anambra State Government has condemned the brutal assault of a female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Jennifer Elobor, by operatives of its security outfit and confirmed that the personnel involved have been arrested and placed under investigation.
A disturbing video that surfaced online on Tuesday showed armed security operatives storming a corps members’ lodge and violently assaulting Elobor, accusing her and others of being internet fraudsters despite their NYSC identification and uniforms.
The operatives were seen beating her, tearing her clothes, and ignoring her desperate pleas for help.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage across social media, with many Nigerians demanding accountability and swift justice for the assaulted corps member.
Speaking on The Morning Brief on Channels Television, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, described the assault as “unfortunate and unacceptable.”
He confirmed that the officers involved had been arrested and detained pending the outcome of an investigation.
Emeakayi explained that the incident occurred during a joint security operation, codenamed Operation Udo Ga achi, which involved personnel from the police, army, DSS, civil defence, and the state’s own security outfit, Agbunechemba, acting under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law of 2025.
“The operatives were on the trail of suspected cultists riding motorcycles and chased them into a compound,” he said.
“In the process of searching the premises, the unfortunate incident involving the corps member occurred.”
While he acknowledged the legality of the operation, Emeakayi stated that the conduct of the officers during the search was not acceptable.
“Immediately the incident was reported, the government moved swiftly to arrest and detain those involved. Our standard procedure is to launch a preliminary investigation, interview victims and witnesses, and determine if internal discipline or prosecution is warranted.”
He further revealed that he had personally met with Elobor and NYSC officials to hear their account and ensure appropriate steps are being taken.
“Our conclusion is clear, while the operatives were on a legitimate mission, their actions violated professional standards and disciplinary measures are underway.”
Emeakayi also clarified that Operation Udo Gatchi is a broader multi-agency operation, while Agbunechemba is the state-sanctioned security unit established under law.
He reassured Anambra residents of the government’s zero tolerance for abuse of power, stating that Governor Soludo’s administration is committed to protecting the rights of all citizens, especially innocent youth corps members serving the state.
