On Friday, Ugwuaji Youths for Peace announced that armed individuals, allegedly operating under the guise of the [Forest Guard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_Guard), were using AK‑47 rifles to harass residents and investors in the Ugwuaji community of Enugu State. The group demanded immediate action from the police, military and other security agencies to investigate the incidents and protect the populace.
**What are the youths demanding?**
The youths called for a thorough probe into the alleged intimidation, the assault of women, and suspected land‑grabbing activities. They urged the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, the General Officer Commanding of the 82 Division, the Garrison Commander, the Department of State Services and other relevant bodies to examine photographic and video evidence attached to their statement.
**Who is being accused?**
The statement, signed by chairman Barr. Ogbodo Nwobodo, singled out the Enugu State Forest Guard commander, Dr Akinbayo O. Olasoji, accusing him of failing to curb the misconduct and of possibly enabling illegal land grabs. The youths questioned the authority under which men carrying AK‑47s operated without identifiable uniforms, demanding clarification of their identities, affiliations and chain of command.
**Key facts quoted in the statement**
- "Our people are wondering when Forest Guards started wielding AK‑47 rifles and using their positions to intimidate residents over land matters," the youths wrote.
- Women in the community have reportedly been beaten by the armed men.
- The group urged that anyone found wielding the rifles be arrested and brought to justice.
- They called for Dr Olasoji’s immediate removal, citing actions contrary to the peace agenda of Governor [Peter Ndubuisi Mbah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Ndubuisi_Mbah).
**What actions have been requested?**
The youths appealed for the removal of the Forest Guard commander, a comprehensive investigation of the armed men’s activities, and the prosecution of those involved in intimidation, assault and illegal land dealings. They also advised residents to remain peaceful and avoid taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing that justice and protection of life and property must be upheld.
The statement concluded by urging authorities to scrutinise the supplied visual evidence to establish the facts and ensure accountability for any unlawful conduct.