In a press release issued on Saturday and signed by the State Chairman of the Council, Comrade Douglas Ochishi, the youth body expressed deep grief and outrage over the incident, describing it as a disturbing example of unprofessional conduct and excessive use of force by some security personnel.
According to the statement, Mr. Uwaezuruike allegedly lost his life following the reckless discharge of firearms by security operatives, an action the Council said runs contrary to the constitutional responsibility of security agencies to protect lives and property.
The NYCN condemned any form of brutality, intimidation, or unlawful killing of citizens by law enforcement officers, warning that repeated incidents of alleged extra-judicial killings continue to erode public confidence in security institutions across the country.
“The death of Mr. Nwanchor Uwaezuruike is not only a painful loss to his family, community, and the youth constituency but also a serious indictment on professionalism, command responsibility, and adherence to rules of engagement within security operations in Ebonyi State,” the statement read.
The Council demanded an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with findings made public.
It also called for the identification, arrest, and prosecution of all officers involved, in line with the Nigerian Constitution, the Police Act, and other relevant laws.
In addition, the NYCN advocated for the establishment of institutionalized dialogue mechanisms between security agencies and youth groups to address recurring issues of brutality, misuse of firearms, and the growing mistrust between security operatives and young people in the state.
The youth body further urged authorities to strengthen training, supervision, and operational accountability within security formations in Ebonyi State, particularly in the areas of human rights compliance and rules of engagement.
Emphasizing that “justice delayed is justice denied,” the NYCN called on relevant security oversight bodies, human rights institutions, civil society organizations, and the media to closely monitor the case to ensure transparency and justice.
While reaffirming its commitment to peaceful advocacy, rule of law, and constructive engagement, the Council warned that it would not relent in its pursuit of justice, accountability, and the protection of Nigerian youths.
The council called for urgent action to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and to restore public trust in security governance in Ebonyi State and beyond.
