The Anambra State Government has dismissed eight operatives of the state ad-hoc security outfit, Agunechemba Vigilante Group (Operation Udo Ga-Achi), after they were implicated in the brutal assault and stripping of a female member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Jennifer Edema Elohor, at a Corps lodge in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.

The Special Adviser to Governor Charles Soludo on Homeland Security, Prince Ken Emeakayi, confirmed the dismissal, describing the actions of the operatives as “condemnable and inexcusable.” He further stated that the culprits have been handed over to the police for prosecution.

“These bad eggs do not represent the values of our security system. They will face the full wrath of the law,” Emeakayi said.

The incident, which has sparked outrage across social media, was first reported after the victim raised an alarm through WhatsApp, narrating how the security operatives allegedly assaulted and stripped her naked. According to her lawyer, Cyrus Onu, the attackers also threatened to rape and kill her, an allegation that has intensified calls for justice.

The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed receiving the complaint. Police Public Relations Officer Ikenga Tochukwu said the victim had been advised to visit the police headquarters for a formal statement to enable further investigation.

“The act is very, very wrong and will not be tolerated,” Ikenga stated.

The dismissal and arrest of the vigilante operatives have been widely praised as a step towards accountability, although human rights advocates continue to demand thorough prosecution and protection for corps members serving in the state.

The NYSC program, which deploys graduates for one year of national service, has repeatedly faced safety concerns, especially in volatile regions. This case has renewed discussions about the welfare and security of corps members in Nigeria.