Nigerian singer Skales has publicly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) recent raid in Lekki, Lagos. In a post on social media platform X, Skales expressed his disapproval of the EFCC's methods, citing his own traumatic experience with the agency in 2023. He urged the EFCC to focus on targeting corrupt politicians instead of young people. Skales' comments come after a video of a woman allegedly injured during the raid went viral, sparking widespread criticism.
The EFCC's October 26 raid at Applewood Estate in Lekki resulted in the arrest of 21 suspected cybercrime fraudsters. According to the EFCC, 19 of the suspects were implicated in preliminary investigations, while the remaining two were released. The agency also recovered five exotic cars and stated that the suspects obtained money from unsuspecting victims through various means, including gift cards and cryptocurrencies. The EFCC defended its actions, describing the operation as professional.
Skales' criticism of the EFCC stems from his personal experience in October 2023, when operatives reportedly broke into his home while he slept with his six-month-old daughter. The singer recounted how the incident left him frightened and traumatized, forcing him to change the locks and keys in his home and become more security-conscious. He also disclosed that his family sought alternative accommodation, while he stayed at a friend's place for three days.
The singer's comments reflect wider concerns raised by Nigerians over videos of the Lekki raid, which circulated on social media and prompted criticism of the EFCC's conduct. Skales called on the EFCC to exercise restraint in the discharge of its duties and show the same energy against politicians accused of stealing billions. He emphasized that he condemns fraud but urged the EFCC to act with decency.
In response to the backlash, the EFCC issued a statement on October 27, defending its actions during the raid. The agency addressed the case of a young woman who was held during the operation, stating that she attempted to alert the suspects by making telephone calls, prompting operatives to confiscate her phone until the operation ended. The device was later returned to her.
The EFCC also stated that the indicted suspects would be arraigned in court. Skales' criticism of the EFCC has sparked a wider conversation about the agency's methods and the need for accountability. The incident has raised concerns about the potential for abuse of power and the need for the EFCC to balance its duties with respect for human rights.
The Lekki raid is the latest controversy surrounding the EFCC's operations. Skales' experience and comments highlight the need for the agency to be more transparent and accountable in its actions. The incident has also sparked calls for the EFCC to focus on tackling corruption at a higher level, rather than targeting young people.
Key points
- Skales recalls his 2023 traumatic encounter with the EFCC.
- The EFCC defends its actions during the Lekki raid.
- Skales urges the EFCC to target corrupt politicians instead of young people.
