A disturbing video has gone viral showing members of the Anambra State Vigilante Group, also known as Agunechemba, assaulting a female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Jennifer Elohor. The incident occurred on July 13, 2025, when the operatives stormed a corps members’ lodge in Oba, Idemili Local Government Area, accusing them of being internet fraudsters despite their display of NYSC identification cards and uniforms.
According to Elohor, the operatives broke into their residence, ransacked their room, seized their phones and laptops, and became violent. They pushed the corps members downstairs, beat Elohor, tore her clothes, and even hit one of her colleagues with an iron rod for pleading on her behalf. The operatives also forced Elohor into their vehicle, pressing her neck, slapping her, and threatening to smash their phones if they contacted anyone. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians condemning the actions of the vigilante group and demanding justice for the victim.
The Anambra State Government has condemned the assault and tendered a public apology to the victim and anyone who has suffered abuse or harassment at the hands of Agunechemba personnel. Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to the state governor on Community Security, stated that the eight personnel responsible have been identified, sacked, arrested, and detained. He emphasized the government’s commitment to justice, accountability, and reforms that will make community policing safer and more humane in the state.
The incident has also been condemned by former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who described it as “inhumane, primitive, and a direct assault on our collective humanity.” Obi called on the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are apprehended, prosecuted, and punished to serve as a deterrent to others. The NYSC has also condemned the assault, restating its commitment to the welfare and security of its corps members nationwide.
The Anambra State Police Command has vowed to get justice for the victim, with the Police Public Relations Officer assuring that the command remains committed to ensuring residents’ safety. The government has also called for regular feedback from communities to improve the performance of Agunechemba and shape the outfit into a people-centered force where discipline, respect for human rights, and professionalism come first.
