Soludo’s aide: Security operatives behind corps member assault in Anambra arrested

The Anambra government says security operatives involved in the assault of a female member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have been arrested.

On August 19, a video of security operatives invading a corps members’ lodge and accusing them of being internet fraudsters surfaced on social media.

One of the operatives was seen hitting a corps member, identified as Jennifer Elobor, while others stood by. Her clothes were torn in the process, revealing her body as she cried out for help.

The incident has drawn outrage on social media, with many Nigerians demanding justice for the victim.

Speaking on The Morning Brief, a Channels Television programme, Ken Emeakayi, special adviser on community security to Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra, described the incident as “unfortunate and unacceptable”.

Emeakayi clarified that operatives involved in the assault were members of Agunechemba, the state security outfit, noting that they were chasing suspected cultists who ran into a residential compound.

He noted that the Agunechemba security outfit was created by the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, adding that the operatives involved in the assault have been placed under investigation.

“While they were acting within the law, their conduct in that instance was unacceptable,” Emeakayi said.

The governor’s aide added that Elobor and NYSC officials were invited to his office, where he heard their account of the incident.

He assured residents that the Soludo administration would not tolerate abuse of power by security operatives.

“Our conclusion is that while the operatives were on a legitimate assignment, the manner in which they acted was not acceptable. We have made that very clear, and disciplinary measures are being taken,” he added.

Tochukwu Ikenga, police spokesperson in the state, also confirmed their arrest to TheCable on Tuesday.

Ikenga, who condemned the assault, noted that the unavailability of the victim has temporarily stalled the investigation.

He assured corps members serving in Anambra of the command’s commitment to their safety and urged them to promptly report cases of harassment or abuse.