“She was on visit to the lodge” — NYSC speaks on viral video of assaulted corper

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has clarified that Jennifer Elobor, the corps member assaulted by a vigilante group in Anambra State, was visiting a lodge when the incident occurred.

On August 19, a video circulated on social media showing security operatives raiding a corps members’ lodge in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, accusing residents of internet fraud. In the footage, one operative is seen hitting Elobor while others looked on, leaving her clothes torn as she cried for help.

NYSC condemned the assault, describing it as “ridiculous” and emphasizing its commitment to the safety and welfare of all corps members. According to the service, the operatives had demanded that everyone in the lodge submit to a search, and Elobor, who was only visiting, was assaulted during the raid. The matter has been reported to the police, and investigations are ongoing.

The service urged the public to support efforts to ensure the security of corps members in their host communities. “Management wishes to restate its strong commitment to the welfare and security of its Corps Members nationwide, and would not condone any individual or group that undermines their security for any reason,” the statement said.

Ken Emeakayi, special adviser on community security to Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soludo, described the incident as “unfortunate and unacceptable,” noting that the operatives, members of the state security outfit Agunechemba, were pursuing suspected cultists who fled into a residential compound.

Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the arrest of the operatives and condemned the assault, adding that the investigation has been delayed due to the temporary unavailability of the victim. He assured corps members in Anambra of the police’s commitment to their safety and urged them to report any harassment or abuse promptly.