Ola Olukoyede , the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has ordered the arrest of two commission officers allegedly involved in the manhandling of a female hotel worker during a controversial raid. The incident, captured in a viral video, has sparked public outrage and prompted calls for accountability within the anti-corruption agency.
The directive from the EFCC Chief, Ola Olukoyede came in response to the widely circulated footage showing EFCC officials forcibly entering and two officers manhandling a female hotel worker in Lagos, during the early hours of 4am. The video depicts the officers breaking into guest rooms while occupants were asleep, leading to chaotic scenes and alleged assaults on hotel staff and guests.
According to eyewitness accounts and social media reports, the EFCC operatives are accused of breaking into rooms, assaulting guests and workers, confiscating personal belongings such as ATM cards, money, and phones, and firing gunshots, causing panic among those present. @pidomnigeria, a social commentator who shared the videos online, described the incident as a “banana republic” situation, highlighting the alleged excessive force and disregard for due process.
In a statement issued by the EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale , the commission acknowledged the concerning footage and assured the public that a thorough investigation into the operation would be conducted. “The EFCC Chief stated that the suspects apprehended during the raid are currently being profiled, and appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken against any officers found culpable of misconduct.
The incident has ignited a wave of criticism from human rights advocates and civil society organizations, who condemned the alleged actions of the EFCC officials as a violation of human rights and a breach of the rule of law. A prominent human rights lawyer, emphasized the need for accountability and called for a transparent inquiry into the matter.
As the EFCC continues its efforts to combat financial crimes, the alleged misconduct during the hotel raid has cast a shadow over the agency’s operations and credibility. The chairman’s directive to arrest the implicated officers is a crucial step towards restoring public trust, but a comprehensive investigation and swift action against any wrongdoing will be necessary to uphold the principles of due process and respect for human rights.
