Lawyer and policy analyst, Dr Monday Ubani (SAN), has called for the enactment of a federal statutory framework clearly defining the authority, roles, and limitations of vigilante groups across Nigeria.

Ubani, who was reacting to the recent assault of an NYSC member, Elohor Jennifer Edema, by operatives of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group in Anambra State, said the absence of clear regulations has created a breeding ground for abuse of power, intimidation, and violence.

He stressed that any statutory framework must be backed by rigorous human rights training for all vigilante operatives, covering the proper use of force, lawful arrest protocols, and referral procedures to the Nigeria Police Force.

“Without proper training and legal guidance, vigilante groups pose as much danger to citizens as the criminals they claim to fight,” Ubani warned.

The SAN argued that vigilante operatives should be restricted to supportive roles such as community patrols, intelligence gathering, and rapid reporting, while any enforcement action must immediately be handed over to the police.

He also called for the creation of independent oversight bodies at both state and federal levels to monitor vigilante activities, enforce sanctions where necessary, and provide redress for victims of abuse.

While commending Governor Charles Soludo’s administration for its response to the Anambra incident, Ubani insisted that justice must be served in Elohor’s case to send a clear message that vigilante excesses will no longer be tolerated.

“The traumatising experience endured by Elohor raises a national alarm. For the safety of citizens and the integrity of public security, the government must act now. Build order, not disorder,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Anambra state government has dismissed the eight operatives of the Agunechemba security outfit over the brutal assault and public stripping of Elobor.

The government acted swiftly after receiving reports of the incident, adding that the operatives would be handed over to the police for prosecution.

According to him, the dismissed officers were in pursuit of suspected cultists when they attacked the corps member, an action he described as “totally outside the mandate of the agency and utterly condemnable.