The management of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library has demanded N3.5 billion in damages and a public apology from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over what it described as an unlawful invasion of its premises in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The demand follows Sunday’s operation by EFCC operatives, during which 93 suspected internet fraudsters were arrested, 18 vehicles impounded, and several mobile devices seized.
Eyewitnesses also alleged that some individuals sustained injuries during the raid.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, OOPL’s Managing Director, Vitalis Ortese, condemned the incident, calling it “a direct assault on everything this institution stands for.”
He described the EFCC’s actions as a violation of private property rights and an infringement on the rights of guests present at the facility.
“This invasion was an assault on the rule of law and the ideals that should guide our democracy,” Ortese said.
“We are demanding that N1 billion be paid as compensation to those arrested, whose vehicles were taken away, and for bodily injuries suffered by at least 100 persons. In addition, N2.5 billion should be paid for the reputational and financial damage done to our institution and to our Chief Promoter, His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.”
The OOPL chief also called for an independent investigation into the raid, with findings published openly, and insisted on a public apology to be carried in major national newspapers.
Ortese expressed concerns over what he termed a “glaring lack of inter-agency coordination,” noting that police officers stationed at the library were neither informed nor involved in the operation.
“This act undermines the credibility of our national security framework and endangers lives,” he added. “It sends the wrong signal to our young people—that creativity and legitimate enterprise are suspect, and that ambition is dangerous.”
The library management gave the EFCC a seven-day ultimatum to meet its demands or face legal action.
According to Ortese, the raid disrupted tourists, business operators, and entertainment events taking place at the premises, creating an atmosphere of fear.
“We have engaged legal counsel, security experts, and civil society partners to ensure accountability, institutional respect, and protection of the rights of our patrons and staff,” he said.
The EFCC has yet to respond publicly to the allegations.
