Youths in Ondo State took to the streets to protest what they described as "incessant and illegal raids" by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Akure, the state capital. The protesters expressed their dissatisfaction with the alleged use of firearms and intimidating tactics employed by EFCC operatives during some of its operations. They, however, made it clear that they were not opposed to the commission carrying out its statutory responsibilities.
The protest was triggered by a recent EFCC operation at the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure (FECA), near Ijapo Estate, where sporadic gunshots were heard. The incident heightened fear among residents, who noted that the manner of some EFCC operations made it difficult for them to distinguish between the operatives and armed robbers. The protesters argued that the commission's operatives should properly identify themselves during raids to avoid causing panic.
The youth leader of Alagbaka Residents, Kudeyide Adebayo, addressed the protesters, stating that they had been living in fear due to repeated gunshots allegedly linked to EFCC operations. Adebayo emphasized that the residents should not be left wondering whether armed men invading their neighbourhoods were law enforcement agents or criminals. He called on the EFCC operatives to identify themselves during raids.
Another protester, Obafunsho Adeshina, alleged that EFCC operations had repeatedly targeted youths, resulting in the seizure of vehicles and other properties. He claimed that the commission's operations had caused widespread fear and economic hardship in the state. Adeshina cited instances where EFCC operatives invaded the houses of youths, carried away their cars, and other belongings.
The protesters, carrying placards with inscriptions including "Stop The Abuse Of Power," "Make Akure A Safe Place," and "EFCC, You Are Not Above The Law," marched to the Ondo State Government House to demand the intervention of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. However, the governor was not available to receive them. Instead, the governor's Special Adviser on Special Duties, Femi Fadairo, addressed the protesters.
Fadairo acknowledged the protesters' concerns, saying that the reported use of firearms during operations could cause panic and affect economic activities in the state. He urged the protesters to conduct themselves peacefully and avoid obstructing other road users. Fadairo emphasized that the protesters had the right to express their grievances but should not disturb others from using the road.
The protest highlights the need for the EFCC to review its operational tactics to avoid causing fear and panic among residents. The commission's actions have sparked concerns about the potential for human rights abuses and the impact on economic activities in the state. Key issues raised by the protesters include the need for EFCC operatives to identify themselves during raids and the alleged targeting of youths during operations.
Key points
- The protesters demand that EFCC operatives should properly identify themselves during raids.
- The protesters claim that EFCC operations have repeatedly targeted youths, resulting in the seizure of vehicles and other properties.
- The protesters call for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to intervene and address their concerns.
