The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the assault on a female National Youth Service Corps member, Jennifer Elobor, in Anambra State by operatives of the state vigilante group.

In a statement via his official X handle on Tuesday, August 19, the former Governor of Anambra State condemned the attack and said he was deeply disturbed by reports it.

He began: "A Cry for Justice Against Barbarism in Anambra."

He added that he just read "with deep concern about the inhumane treatment meted out to a young lady in Anambra State."

He continued: "As an Anambrian myself, I feel not only ashamed but also deeply heartbroken that such cruelty could happen in 2025, in a society that ought to have advanced beyond such barbarous acts.

"I strongly condemn this act of primitive wickedness and savagery. No society should ever tolerate the abuse, humiliation, and dehumanization of its citizens, least of all the vulnerable and women. What happened is not only a violation of law and morality, but also a direct assault on our collective humanity. That young girl could have been anyone’s daughter, sister, or even mine.

"We must awaken our conscience and work collectively to build a society where justice is swift, compassion is active, and the dignity of every human being - especially the young and vulnerable - is inviolable. To do anything less is to endanger the very fabric of civilisation.

"I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are not only apprehended and prosecuted, but also made examples to deter future acts of savagery. More than that, let this tragedy compel us to institute stronger safeguards, policies, and communal values that protect the weak and restrain the powerful.

"Our humanity must always come first. Without it, we are nothing but a people adrift in cruelty."