The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has denied any connection between its recent operation in Ilorin, Kwara State, and the protest by students of Kwara State Polytechnic.
The anti-graft agency, in a statement posted on its official X handle on Thursday, said its operatives from the Ilorin Zonal Directorate carried out a sting operation in the Agbede community targeting suspected internet fraudsters.
According to the commission, the operation, conducted on March 24, 2026, led to the arrest of 30 suspects, including six students of the polytechnic.
“The operation yielded the arrest of 30 suspected internet fraudsters, six of whom are students of Kwara State Polytechnic,” the EFCC said.
It added that preliminary investigations showed that the students were actively involved in internet fraud, while eight vehicles suspected to be proceeds of crime, along with mobile phones and laptops, were recovered.
The commission, however, dismissed claims that its operation triggered the protest at the institution.
“The sting operation was not remotely connected to the Polytechnic. No entrance was made into the premises of the institution, and there was no disruption of any academic activity,” it stated.
“It is untenable to link any protest by some students to the lawful operation of the EFCC. Any video suggesting otherwise is misleading and a misrepresentation of the facts,” the agency added.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and transparency in carrying out its duties.
“We assure the public of the integrity of our operations. Channels for reporting unethical conduct by our staff remain open, and we will continue to act in the interest of Nigerians,” the statement read.
The clarification follows a protest by some students on Wednesday after reports of EFCC operatives in areas surrounding the school during ongoing examinations sparked panic.
Eyewitnesses said confusion broke out as students ran in different directions, with some alleging that an officer was seen chasing a student, heightening fears.
Some students later staged a protest, burning tyres along parts of Old Jebba Road leading to the institution.
Security presence was subsequently reinforced, with a police van deployed to the main gate to maintain order.
Reacting, the management of the polytechnic said calm had been restored, describing the protest as brief and limited.
“The incident originated from reports of security operatives carrying out duties in the nearby Agbede community, which caused concern among some students.
No students were arrested during the operation,” the management said.
It also noted that only a small number of students were involved in the protest and commended security agencies for their swift response.
