The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the assault of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Jennifer Elobor, by security operatives in Oba, Anambra State, describing the act as “inhumane” and a gross violation of her fundamental rights.
In a statement signed by NBA President, Afam Osigwe, and National Secretary, Mobolaji Ojibara, the association said the brutal treatment of Elobor — who was beaten and stripped despite identifying herself with her NYSC card — amounted to a “barbaric act” that must not go unpunished.
The incident, captured in a viral video, showed members of the Operation Udo Ga-Achi vigilante group, also known as Agunechemba, assaulting Elobor and accusing her and other corps members of fraud.
“The NBA commends the Anambra State Government for its swift action in identifying and arresting the operatives responsible. However, accountability must not stop at arrest. The perpetrators must be promptly prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the statement read.
The association stressed that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done — both to serve as redress for Elobor and as a deterrent against future abuses.
The Anambra State Government confirmed on Tuesday that the suspects had been arrested and investigations were ongoing.
The NBA further called for comprehensive reorientation and training of security operatives, noting that respect for human rights and professionalism must guide their operations at all times.
It urged the state government to put mechanisms in place to prevent a recurrence and reassured Nigerians of its commitment to securing justice for the assaulted corps member.
