127 Arrested, Protest Erupts in Akure Over EFCC Raid on Nightclubs
A group of youths staged a protest on June 10th , 2024 against a raid conducted by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at two nightclubs in Akure, the Ondo State capital, resulting in the arrest of 127 individuals. The commission’s personnel had reportedly stormed the nightclubs on June 8th, apprehending several youths suspected of involvement in internet fraud activities.
Femi Akinremi, one of the protesters, called for investigations by both the state and federal governments into the actions of the EFCC personnel. He questioned the legitimacy of targeting nightclub patrons, emphasizing that not every youth present in such establishments is involved in fraudulent activities.
However, in a statement issued by the EFCC Head of Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the commission clarified that none of the apprehended individuals were subjected to assault or dehumanization during the operation. Additionally, the EFCC denied the use of tear gas during the raid, countering claims of excessive force employed by its personnel.
