By Temitope 
Two female corps members in Enugu East LGA, Enugu State, have accused a Corps Liaison Officer (CLO) of physically assaulting them during a meeting held last Saturday.
According to reports, the CLO allegedly intimidated the victims and later claimed to be “untouchable” due to his connections with NYSC officials.
The incident came to light when a relative of one of the victims, using the handle @JoiceofLagos, shared the story on X (formerly Twitter). They alleged that law enforcement officers were pressured into dropping the case after police intervention.
The African Women in Public Service (AWiPS) released a statement on Monday condemning the assault.
Signed by AWiPS President Ugo Agwu-Nnachi, the statement expressed outrage over the alleged abuse of power and intimidation. The organization demanded a transparent investigation to deliver justice for the victims.
Agwu-Nnachi remarked, “Reports of an alleged assault by a CLO in Enugu State are deeply troubling. The alleged abuse of power and attempts to suppress justice are serious violations of the victims’ rights and dignity, requiring urgent attention.”
The statement further raised concerns about alleged pressure on law enforcement to drop the case, leaving the victims exposed to potential threats.
AWiPS urged the NYSC to ensure a thorough investigation and take decisive steps to guarantee justice is served swiftly.
“This incident is not an isolated case but a wake-up call for systemic reforms within the NYSC program,” Agwu-Nnachi emphasized.
AWiPS reiterated its dedication to protecting the safety and dignity of all women and girls in public service. The organization pledged to actively monitor the case and advocate for justice.
Broader Implications for Corps Members’ Safety
This incident highlights the broader issue of safety for corps members across Nigeria. While the NYSC program has been praised for fostering unity and cultural integration, reports of harassment and abuse have raised questions about the adequacy of its protective measures. Female corps members, in particular, often face unique vulnerabilities, from verbal harassment to physical abuse.
Calls for Systemic Reforms
Advocates are now calling for systemic reforms within the NYSC structure to address such incidents effectively. This includes establishing independent complaint mechanisms where corps members can report misconduct without fear of retaliation. Strengthening oversight on the activities of CLOs and other officials is another area requiring immediate attention.
Legal Perspectives and Advocacy
Legal experts have weighed in on the case, emphasizing the importance of pursuing justice to deter future misconduct. Human rights organizations have called for pro-bono legal assistance for the victims to ensure they are not silenced by systemic pressures. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has also been urged to intervene and oversee the case’s investigation to guarantee transparency.
NYSC’s Responsibility
As an institution that oversees the welfare of young graduates, the NYSC bears a significant responsibility to protect its participants. Stakeholders have suggested mandatory training sessions for CLOs and other officials on ethical conduct, conflict resolution, and gender sensitivity. Implementing such measures could help restore confidence in the program.
Public Reaction and Social Media Advocacy
The story has gained significant traction on social media platforms, with many users expressing outrage over the alleged abuse and demanding accountability. The hashtag #JusticeForEnuguCorpers has trended, drawing attention to the plight of the victims and putting pressure on authorities to act decisively. Public advocacy has proven effective in similar cases, and it remains a vital tool in seeking justice and systemic change.
Conclusion
The alleged assault on two female corps members by a CLO in Enugu underscores the urgent need for reforms within the NYSC framework. Ensuring justice for the victims goes beyond addressing this isolated incident; it sets a precedent for accountability and safety for all corps members. Organizations like AWiPS and the broader public must continue to advocate for systemic changes to protect the dignity and rights of every participant in the NYSC program.
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