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By Lizzy Chirkpi
A prominent human rights organisation, the Legal Assistance and Citizens Rights Initiative (LACRI), has issued a strong condemnation following the brutal assault and public humiliation of a female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Miss Jennifer Edema Elohor, in Anambra State.
The corps member was reportedly attacked by members of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, a security outfit said to be operating under the authority of the Governor Charles Soludo-led administration. In a disturbing video that has since gone viral, Ms. Elohor was seen stripped naked, savagely beaten, and left bloodied by the group in what many have described as an act of jungle justice.
In a press statement signed by its Executive Director, Martin Atojoko, Esq, LACRI described the assault as “barbaric, inhumane, and degrading,” calling it a national disgrace and a stain on Nigeria’s democratic principles. The group said the attack constitutes a grave violation of the victim’s fundamental human rights as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
LACRI decried the irony of a system where politicians and public office holders engage in widespread corruption without consequence, yet a young woman offering selfless national service can be stripped of her dignity in broad daylight. The group warned that such abuse of power by non-state actors undermines the rule of law and weakens public trust in governance.
The organisation is demanding an immediate and thorough investigation into the actions of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, calling for full prosecution of those responsible, regardless of their affiliations or political protection. LACRI is also demanding a public apology to Miss Elohor and financial compensation for the trauma and injury she has endured. Furthermore, the group is urging the government to initiate urgent reforms — or disband vigilante groups operating outside the bounds of legality and human decency in Anambra State.
LACRI has also called out the Nigerian Police, criticising their tendency to expect victims of such trauma to report in person. The organisation emphasized that it is the duty of the police to locate the victim, who may currently be hospitalised or in hiding with her family, and take her statement in a manner that respects her condition and dignity.
Atojoko warned that any silence or delay from the government and law enforcement agencies would only serve to embolden perpetrators and institutionalize impunity. He called on Governor Charles Soludo, the Inspector General of Police, the National Human Rights Commission, and the NYSC Directorate to act with urgency and resolve.
“We stand in full solidarity with Miss Jennifer Edema Elohor,” Atojoko stated, “and with all Nigerians who continue to face injustice, abuse, and oppression. Jungle justice has no place in a society that claims to respect democracy and the rule of law.”