The Legal Assistance and Citizens Rights Initiative LACRI has condemns the barbaric, inhumane, and degrading treatment meted out to Miss Jennifer Edema Elohor, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member in Anambra state, who was violently beaten, stripped naked, and left bloodied by members of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group.
This was contained in a statement by Executive Director, Legal Asssistance and Citizens Rights Initiative Martin Atojoko.
According to the statement, the viral video capturing this heart-wrenching assault is not only an embarrassment to Anambra state but also a shameful stain on Nigeria’s democracy, where jungle justice is carried out against the weak while the powerful political elite, who plunder the nation’s wealth daily, are shielded from accountability.
“It is unacceptable that in a country where leaders loot billions without consequence, a young woman who dedicated herself to national service can be subjected to such humiliation under the guise of fighting crime.
“This act represents a grave violation of her fundamental human rights as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” the group said.
The group called for, “Immediate investigation into the actions of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, Public apology and compensation to Miss Jennifer Edema Elohor. Prosecution of those responsible for this assault, regardless of their position or political cover and urgent reform or disbandment of vigilante groups operating outside the rule of law in Anambra state.”
They also called on Governor Charles Soludo, the Inspector General of Police, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and the NYSC Directorate to act swiftly and decisively. Silence or delay will only embolden further abuse and lawlessness.
“We stand in solidarity with Jennifer Edema Elohor and all Nigerians who continue to face injustice, abuse, and oppression. Jungle justice must never be tolerated in a society that claims to uphold democracy and the rule of law,” it said.