EFCC Storms Residential Building in Controversial Operation: Allegations of Abuse, Extortion, and Fear Spread Among Residents
5th December
In a dramatic and unsettling operation, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) carried out a 4 AM raid on a 16-apartment residential building @ Abuja Quarters GRA on the SAME ROAD the Former Chief of Staff in the Obaseki Government Resides Osigbovo Iyoha , leaving residents shaken and sparking public outrage over allegations of abuse, extortion, and human rights violations. This operation, which reportedly involved violence, threats, and extortionate demands, has once again raised questions about the tactics of Nigeria’s anti-graft agency and the protection of citizen rights.
The Raid: Fear in the Dead of Night
The incident began with EFCC operatives arriving in a convoy of vehicles and scaling the building’s fence to gain entry. According to witnesses, the gateman, who attempted to open the gate, was beaten by the operatives, who then forced their way into the premises. Without prior notice or presenting a search warrant, they embarked on a one-hour siege, during which they used battering rams to break doors and windows.
Though the agents wore EFCC-branded overcoats, they reportedly made no effort to introduce themselves or explain their purpose. Instead, the terrified residents, roused from their sleep, were threatened to stay inside their apartments, with some who ventured out being forcibly ordered back into their homes.
“They were woken up by loud noises and saw men breaking doors with heavy equipment. Nobody told us who they were or why they were there. All we could do was hide and pray,” one distraught resident recounted.
Arrests and Allegations of Extortion
When the raid ended, four young men were arrested. Personal belongings, including laptops and cars, were also seized. Residents claimed the EFCC gave no explanation for the arrests, adding to their confusion and anxiety.
The situation escalated the following day when the EFCC reportedly set bail conditions for the arrested individuals at ₦10 million each. In a troubling revelation, one detainee, who was allegedly declared innocent of any wrongdoing, was still asked to pay ₦1.5 million to secure his release.
Bankole Adaranijo is still in Custody . He is an Alleged BIU Student of Benson Idahosa University as the Other Boys picked up are Suspected to also be and he is being ALLEGEDLY told to pay 1.5m Bail for being INNOCENT
“This is not justice. They declared him innocent but still demanded money for bail. What kind of system is this?” questioned a family member of one of the detainees.
These allegations of extortion have intensified scrutiny of the EFCC’s operational ethics, with many accusing the agency of exploiting its authority for financial gain.
Yesterday another Raid
Accusations of Complicity
The Landlord’s name as not been Ascertained Yet but Information Reaching us says He is allegedly Threatning The Agents & Lawyer over the Situation
As the dust settled, accusations arose against the apartment agent and the building’s legal representative. One resident accused them of knowingly renting the apartments to individuals targeted by the EFCC. It was alleged that the agent and lawyer received ₦1.3 million in rent and undisclosed “gifts” as incentives to facilitate these leases.
Both the agent and lawyer have categorically denied the allegations, insisting that they were unaware of any EFCC interest in the tenants. However, their denial has done little to ease tensions or dispel suspicions among the remaining residents.
A Deserted Block: Fear and Distrust Take Hold
By Sunday morning, the once-bustling apartment block was nearly empty. Many law-abiding tenants, fearing unjust reprisals or further harassment, packed up and left. Those who remained were met with EFCC demands to produce identification and documentation, a request viewed with suspicion.
“I’m not a criminal, but I’m scared of what they might do with my information. I’ve decided to leave before things get worse,” said one tenant, who was seen hurriedly loading belongings into a car.
Public Outcry and Legal Concerns
The raid has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts, civil society organizations, and human rights advocates. Many argue that the EFCC’s actions violated multiple provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, including the right to privacy and protection against unlawful searches and seizures.
“The EFCC has a mandate to combat corruption and financial crimes, but it must operate within the framework of the law. The use of violence, threats, and extortion undermines public trust in the agency and damages its credibility,” stated a spokesperson for a leading human rights organization.
Others have highlighted the psychological and financial toll on innocent residents, urging the government to investigate the incident thoroughly and hold the EFCC accountable for any misconduct.
The Way Forward: Balancing Justice with Rights
This incident is not an isolated case but part of a growing pattern of EFCC operations criticized for their heavy-handed approach. While the fight against financial crimes is crucial for Nigeria’s development, it cannot come at the expense of citizens’ rights and freedoms.
Experts are calling for the EFCC to reform its operational strategies to ensure transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to the law. Advocacy groups have also urged affected residents to seek legal redress and demand compensation for damages.
As of now, the EFCC has yet to issue an official statement regarding the raid, leaving many questions unanswered. Nigerians across the country are watching closely as more details emerge, with hopes that this incident will lead to meaningful reforms in how the agency conducts its operations.
A Nation’s Call for Justice
This raid underscores the urgent need for a balance between justice and respect for human rights in Nigeria. While combating crime is essential, agencies like the EFCC must remember that their ultimate duty is to serve and protect the people.
The nation waits for answers, accountability, and a promise that such incidents will not become the norm in the fight against corruption.