The management of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has strongly criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for allegedly invading its premises in the early hours of Sunday, describing the operation as a violation of fundamental rights.
According to the OOPL Managing Director, Vitalis Ortese, the incident occurred around 2 a.m., when armed operatives, allegedly led by an officer identified as “Olapade,” stormed the complex, disrupting a private event and firing sporadically. The commotion reportedly left several guests injured as they fled for safety.
“This action is a clear case of invasion of private property, infringement of our rights as corporate citizens, and a blatant violation of the rights of the people gathered for the event,” Ortese said in a statement issued on Sunday.
The management insisted the EFCC’s approach was “needless and primitive,” noting that police officers were already deployed to the venue by the event organisers and additional personnel were sent from the Kemta Police Station. Both sets of officers, OOPL said, confirmed they were unaware of any planned EFCC operation and that no warrant was presented.
“When confronted, the armed men simply replied, ‘We are doing our job,’” Ortese stated, adding that the EFCC claimed it was acting on intelligence regarding the private gathering at the library’s amusement facility.
The OOPL management demanded a public explanation and apology from the anti-graft agency for what it described as “gangster-like” conduct, warning that it would “not hesitate to seek legal redress and applicable sanctions” should the commission fail to comply.
“The invasion caused serious panic and chaos, leading to injuries and instilling terror among residents. Failure to apologise will compel us to take up this matter with the highest authorities, including the EFCC, the police, and the Department of State Services,” the statement read.
The EFCC, on its official X handle, confirmed conducting an operation in Abeokuta on Sunday, announcing the arrest of 93 suspected internet fraudsters in connection with a separate raid.
