By Our Correspondent
The Anambra State Government has disowned a viral video allegedly showing operatives of the state’s Anti-Touting Squad, popularly known as Ndi Aka Odo, subjecting suspected touts to degrading treatment.
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, through the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, on Sunday ordered a full-scale investigation into the video, which has sparked widespread public outrage across social media platforms.
Soludo also assured residents that any verified case of abuse by the squad would be dealt with decisively and in accordance with the law.
While reaffirming the administration’s firm stance against touting and street harassment, the government stated that it would not tolerate lawlessness or human rights violations under any guise.
“In this era of AI and sophisticated disinformation, we urge members of the public to always verify media contents before spreading or holding same as true,” Dr. Mefor said.
He added that the Soludo administration remains deeply committed to justice, fairness, and the protection of civil liberties, adding, “The government will not allow any person or group to inflict pain unduly upon lawful citizens in the name of enforcement”.
The statement also warned about the increasing dangers of artificial intelligence and digital manipulation in fueling misinformation and inciting public unrest.
“The dangers of using AI to spread misinformation or incite public unrest are real. The public must remain vigilant,” it noted.
Ndi Aka Odo has previously faced heavy criticism for alleged high-handedness in its operations. In earlier incidents, the group was accused of brutal crackdowns on street traders, commercial drivers, and youths across Onitsha and Awka.
Several videos had emerged showing operatives engaging in violent enforcement actions — including the widely condemned manhandling of one Mgbilimgba — prompting civil society groups to call for the reform or outright disbandment of the squad.
