The Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, has strongly condemned the disturbing viral video showing operatives of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group physically assaulting a youth corps member, Ms. Jennifer Oedema Elohor.
Ojukwu, while reacting to the video, described the incident as a gross violation of human dignity and a clear breach of the provisions of Nigeria’s Anti-Torture Act, 2017, which expressly prohibits and criminalises torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment under any circumstance.
He noted with concern that acts of brutality, particularly against women, are becoming an alarming trend that must not be allowed to take root in society.
“It is most disturbing that a group established to protect lives and property could turn around to dehumanise innocent citizens. This inhuman and degrading treatment is unacceptable, unlawful, and should be condemned in all ramifications,” he stated.
He noted that the Commission’s investigation revealed that the incident occurred in July at Oba, Anambra State and that the perpetrators had attempted to ensure that it was swept under the carpet until the video fortunately leaked.
He said that although the survivor has relocated, the Commission is making a frantic effort to reach her to ensure she gets adequate redress. He further pleaded with the Inspector-General of Police to protect the youth corper and her family, to encourage Ms. Elohor to present herself to facilitate the prosecution of the case by the Police.
He lamented that the issue of vigilantes who were expected to protect innocent citizens is taking another dimension as the Commission’s office in the state is dealing with several issues of violation, ranging from child defilement to enforced disappearance.
The NHRC Boss further called on the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, to ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous acts are promptly prosecuted in accordance with the Anti-Torture Act. Saying, accountability is crucial to deter future violations and to reinforce the rule of law.
While urging citizens to report cases of human rights violations to the Commission, the NHRC Boss reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to continue to follow the case closely to ensure that justice is delivered to Ms. Jennifer Oedema Elohor and others whose case the Commission is handling”.
He also reiterated that the NHRC will continue to work 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.
