Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has ordered the immediate dismissal and prosecution of members of a local vigilante group accused of assaulting a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member in the state.
The incident, which occurred over the weekend, sparked outrage after a viral video showed the corps member being beaten by men in vigilante uniforms. The footage triggered public condemnation, with many calling on the state government to take decisive action.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo described the assault as “barbaric, unlawful, and completely unacceptable.” He stressed that his administration would not tolerate any form of abuse or violation of citizens’ rights under the guise of security enforcement.
The actions of the vigilante operatives in question are reprehensible and against everything this administration stands for. Effective immediately, those involved are dismissed from service and will face the full weight of the law,” the statement read.
The governor further directed the Commissioner of Police and the State Attorney-General to ensure that the culprits are investigated, charged, and prosecuted without delay.
Soludo reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions by security outfits, whether state-owned or community-based.
He emphasized that while vigilante groups play a vital role in supporting security efforts, they must operate strictly within the law and under proper supervision.
Security outfits are established to protect lives and property, not to harass or assault innocent citizens. We will continue to sanitize and reform all such outfits to ensure professionalism and accountability,” the governor assured.
The government has also reached out to the assaulted corps member to provide medical and psychological support. Soludo assured the NYSC authorities of the state’s commitment to protecting corps members serving in Anambra.
The NYSC Directorate has welcomed the governor’s swift intervention, noting that such decisive action will help restore the confidence of corps members and their families.
Rights groups and civil society organisations have also commended the move but urged the state government to follow through on prosecution to set a precedent against future abuses.
