Management of Green Legacy Hotel, part of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), has threatened legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following a Sunday morning raid by EFCC operatives.
In a statement issued by managing director Vitalis Ortese, the hotel confirmed that approximately 50 armed men, claiming to be from the EFCC and led by an individual named “Olapade,” forced entry into the hotel at about 2 a.m.
The group reportedly fired shots, threatened attendees and disrupted a private event that had been publicly advertised beforehand.
Mr Ortese said neither the police assigned to the OOPL nor officers from Kemta Police Station, who had been hired by event organisers were aware of any planned operation by the EFCC, nor was a warrant presented.
OOPL management called the action an “invasion of private property” and a violation of its rights as a corporate entity and of those gathered at the event.
They demanded an explanation and apology from EFCC, warning that legal redress would follow if none is provided.
The raid, reportedly linked to “credible intelligence,” resulted in the arrest of 93 suspected internet fraudsters and the seizure of 18 vehicles and mobile devices.
The EFCC plans to charge the suspects once investigations conclude.
The management of OOPL stated the incident caused panic and injuries among participants who fled in fear.
In response, the library said it has launched its own probe and will escalate the matter to EFCC leadership, the police and the department of state services.
