Governor Soludo Acts Swiftly After Corps Member Assault, Orders Justice and Reform

AWKA, ANAMBRA STATE — August 20, 2025

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has taken decisive action following the reported assault of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member by local vigilante operatives. In a strong response, the governor immediately dismissed the vigilantes involved and ordered their prosecution.

The incident, which occurred in a community within the state earlier this week, sparked public outrage after a video surfaced online showing a corps member being physically assaulted during what appeared to be a routine stop-and-search operation.

Speaking at a press briefing in Awka on Tuesday, Governor Soludo condemned the act, stating:
“Under no circumstances should any security operative, formal or informal, violate the rights of innocent citizens—especially our corps members who have come from across the country to serve and contribute to our state’s development.”

He assured the public that the government would not tolerate abuse of power or intimidation by anyone operating under its authority. The governor also directed the state’s Ministry of Justice to ensure a full and transparent investigation, with charges filed where appropriate.

The assaulted corps member, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed for safety reasons, is reportedly receiving medical care and psychological support. The NYSC State Coordinator has praised the swift intervention, noting that it reinforces confidence in the state’s commitment to corps members’ safety.

This incident has reignited conversations around the regulation of community security groups, often created to support overstretched formal security systems. While many vigilante groups play a vital role in local safety, incidents like this highlight the urgent need for training, oversight, and accountability.

For citizens and corps members alike, Soludo’s swift response sends a clear message: dignity and justice must never be compromised in the name of security.