The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has conducted a midnight raid on students of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo state.
This raid has attracted a lot of controversies and outrage from the public over the choice of time for the operation.
However, the event is suspected to have been carried out by EFCC operatives because one of the officials was captured with the agency’s jacket.
The incident occurred around 2 a.m. as the students' lodges were being invaded by the EFCC operatives.
Social media has been abuzz with videos allegedly showing EFCC officials breaking into rooms and arresting some students. One video depicts broken window frames, suggesting an attempt at forced entry.
A social media user, J Brandy, expressed outrage, stating, "I thought they said EFCC should not raid at night again. This hostel (Celebrity Lodge, FUTA) is right behind mine. When will this be endemic? EFCC (officials) moving like thieves at night!"
The EFCC's Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, had previously ordered the cessation of night-time sting operations following a public outcry over the arrest of suspected internet fraudsters in Ile-Ife, Osun State. However, this recent incident indicates a potential violation of this directive.
Efforts to reach the EFCC's Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, for comment were unsuccessful. Despite initially requesting a call back in 20 minutes, Oyewale has not responded to further inquiries as of the time of this publication.
More details to be reported as soon as an explanation is given by the EFCC’s spokesman on the matter.