Peter Obi has condemned the assault of NYSC member Jenifer Elobor in Anambra State.
He described the attack as cruel, shameful, and a violation of human dignity.
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Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the assault of a female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Jenifer Elobor, by operatives of a vigilante outfit in Anambra State, describing the incident as cruel, backward, and an attack on human dignity.
Obi, in a statement issued on Tuesday through his official X handle, said he was deeply troubled by the report of the attack, noting that it reflects negatively on a society that should be striving for progress and respect for human rights in 2025.
According to him, it is unacceptable that such dehumanizing acts still occur, especially in communities that should be setting examples of civility and protection for the vulnerable. He lamented that as an indigene of Anambra, the incident was both shameful and heartbreaking.
“I am pained and ashamed that this happened in my home state. The thought that a young girl in service to her nation could be subjected to such cruelty in 2025 is deeply disturbing. No society that aspires to growth and progress should tolerate such barbarity,” Obi said.
The former Anambra governor stressed that the abuse of citizens, particularly women and the vulnerable, is a violation of both law and morality. He pointed out that Jenifer could have been anyone’s daughter, sister, or relative, adding that her experience underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards to protect Nigerians.
“What happened is not just a crime against one individual but an assault on our collective humanity. We must not allow acts like this to go unpunished,” he said.
Obi called on security agencies to move swiftly in ensuring that the perpetrators are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. He maintained that justice must be served not only to restore the dignity of the victim but also to serve as a deterrent to others.
He further urged the authorities to go beyond punishment by developing stronger community policing structures, safeguards, and policies aimed at protecting vulnerable groups, including women and young people serving under the NYSC scheme.
“Those behind this act must face the law, but beyond that, we must build systems that guarantee the safety of every Nigerian. Our humanity must remain our guiding principle. Without it, we risk drifting into a society defined by cruelty and indifference,” Obi added.
