Barrister Asukwo Mendie Archibong, a legal practitioner, has condemned the brutal assault and violation of rights of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members by operatives of Operation Udo Ga-Achi or ‘Agunechemba Vigilante Group’ in Anambra State. On July 23, 2025, these state actors stormed the corps members’ lodge, accusing them of being ‘yahoo people’ despite their prompt production of NYSC identification cards and uniforms.
The assault was particularly egregious in the case of Jennifer Edema Elohor, a female corps member who was beaten, stripped naked, and left exposed and covered in blood. The victims were subjected to unsavory, horrible, sexually degrading words and actions, including threats of sexual violation. Archibong’s stance on human rights violations is evident in his previous criticisms, such as the Ibom Air incident where a female passenger was forcefully restrained, stripped naked, and filmed by bystanders ¹.
Key Points of the Incident:
– Assault and Violation: Corps members were brutally assaulted and subjected to humiliating treatment by vigilante group operatives.
– Accusations: The operatives accused the corps members of being ‘yahoo people’, despite their identification cards and uniforms.
– Condemnation: Barrister Asukwo Mendie Archibong condemned the act, highlighting the importance of respecting human rights and dignity.
– Similar Cases: Archibong has previously spoken out against human rights abuses, such as the Ibom Air incident, emphasizing the need for professionalism and due process.
The brutal assault on the NYSC members highlights the need for accountability and respect for human rights. Asukwo Mendie Archibong’s condemnation of the act underscores the importance of protecting citizens’ rights and dignity.
