By George Ozalla
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, has strongly condemned the brutal assault of a youth corps member, Ms. Jennifer Edema Elohor, by operatives of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group in Anambra State. The incident, which was captured in a viral video, is a gross violation of human dignity and a clear breach of Nigeria’s Anti-Torture Act, 2017.
According to a press statement signed by Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Director Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Dr. Ojukwu described the incident as “inhuman and degrading treatment” that is “unacceptable, unlawful, and should be condemned in all ramifications.” He lamented that acts of brutality, particularly against women, are becoming an alarming trend that must not be allowed to take root in society.
The NHRC investigation revealed that the incident occurred in July at Oba, Anambra State, and that the perpetrators had attempted to sweep it under the carpet until the video leaked. Dr. Ojukwu has pleaded with the Inspector-General of Police to provide protection for the youth corps member and her family to facilitate the prosecution of the case.
The NHRC boss has also called on the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, to ensure that the perpetrators are promptly prosecuted in accordance with the Anti-Torture Act. Dr. Ojukwu reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to following the case closely to ensure that justice is delivered to Ms. Elohor and others whose cases the Commission is handling.
The NHRC has urged citizens to report cases of human rights violations to report cases of human rights violations to the Commission and has reiterated its commitment to working with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure the full implementation of the Anti-Torture Act, 2017, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all Nigerians.
