“They Wanted to Silence Me” — Anambra Corps Member Jennifer Eloho Breaks Silence on Brutal Vigilante Attack

A young National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member in Anambra State, Jennifer Edema Elohor, has recounted a chilling encounter that nearly cost her life.

Jennifer, who spoke out on Thursday, revealed how she was ambushed, beaten, and humiliated by local vigilante operatives, despite showing them proof of her identity as a corps member.

The Night That Changed Everything

According to Jennifer, the nightmare unfolded while she was returning from the market. Suddenly, a group of vigilantes stopped her, demanding her identity. She complied, showing both her NYSC uniform and ID card — but instead of letting her go, they accused her of “suspicious behavior.”

“They said I was guilty of things I knew nothing about. Then they started beating me and calling me names. I screamed that I was a corps member, but they ignored me,” Jennifer recounted in tears.

Her words paint a terrifying picture: a young woman surrounded, wrongly accused, and violently attacked — simply because those in power thought they could get away with it.

“I Was Targeted”

Jennifer strongly believes the attack was not random.

“I honestly believe they singled me out. If not for bystanders who rushed to my rescue, I might not be alive today,” she said.

Her body may heal, but the trauma remains. And her story has now ignited outrage across Nigeria, sparking questions about how safe corps members really are in communities they are sent to serve.

Widespread Outrage

The assault has been condemned by fellow corps members, human rights activists, and residents of Anambra. Many say this is just one example of how untrained vigilante groups abuse power in local communities.

The NYSC has since reacted, describing the attack as “unacceptable” and demanding accountability. Pressure is now mounting on authorities to act — before another innocent youth falls victim.

Bigger Questions to Ask

• How safe are NYSC members in Nigeria today?

• Who holds vigilante groups accountable for their actions?

• What protection do ordinary citizens have when those meant to “protect” become the attackers?

These questions remain unanswered, but Jennifer’s voice is ensuring they can no longer be ignored.