Chisom Umejiaku
The Anambra State–backed security outfit, Operation Udo Ga-Achi, also known as the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, is under growing scrutiny over alleged human rights abuses, even as many residents acknowledge its role in reducing violent crime.
Launched in January 2025 by Governor Charles Soludo under the state’s Homeland Security Law, the outfit began with about 2,000 operatives drawn from the police, army, navy, DSS, civil defence, and local vigilantes.
Armed with patrol vehicles and surveillance technology, its mandate was to combat kidnapping, armed robbery, and other security threats.
In its early months, the group was credited with dismantling criminal camps, arresting suspected kidnappers, and restoring relative calm in parts of the state. Traditional rulers and community leaders welcomed the initiative, saying residents could now move more freely without the constant fear of attacks.
But alongside its gains, concerns have mounted. The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) earlier warned of alleged extrajudicial killings and unprofessional conduct, urging authorities to investigate.
At town hall meetings, stakeholders also raised alarms over extortion and lack of oversight, cautioning that such excesses could undermine public trust.
The most recent controversy erupted after a viral video showed operatives storming a corpers Lodge in Awka. In the footage, Jennifer Edema Elohor, a female corps member, was beaten, stripped naked, and left bloodied.
READ ALSO: VIDEO: Vigilantes Assault, Strip Female Corps Member in Anambra
Rights group Haven 360 Foundation shared the video on Facebook and reported that the incident happened on July 23, 2025. The vigilantes accused the corps members of being internet fraudsters and attacked them despite their presentation of NYSC identity cards.
The group described the assault as degrading and a gross violation of human rights, noting that Elohor was singled out for particularly brutal treatment.
The video provoked widespread outrage across Nigeria, with critics warning that such actions erode confidence in the security outfit despite its successes against crime. Many civil society organisations have since called for accountability and stronger protection for corps members.
Security analysts say Operation Udo Ga-Achi remains a double-edged sword: effective in tackling insecurity, but at risk of losing legitimacy if allegations of abuse continue unchecked.
As of press time, the Anambra State Government has not responded to renewed calls for reform, but rights advocates insist that without accountability and oversight, the outfit’s early achievements could be overshadowed by misconduct.