KEY POINTS
- OOPL demands N3.5 billion restitution.
- Library accuses EFCC, police of unlawful, malicious raid.
- Seven-day ultimatum issued for public apology.
The management of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta has given Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency and the police one week to issue public apologies and pay N3.5 billion in damages over what it called an “unlawful” raid on its premises.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday, Managing Director Vitalis Ortese accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Police Force of staging a “malicious” operation that violated rights, damaged property, and also tarnished the institution’s reputation.
EFCC raid sparks legal threat
EFCC operatives stormed the library on August 9–10, arresting 93 suspected internet fraudsters, and seizing 18 vehicles and multiple mobile devices. The OOPL further says many of those detained were guests at a lawful gathering and suffered “brutalization.”
Demands include N3.5 billion restitution
The library is seeking N1 billion in compensation for those arrested and N2.5 billion in reputational damages. It also wants public apologies from the EFCC chairman and the Inspector General of Police, to be broadcast across television, print, and social media platforms.
Ready to sue if demands unmet
Ortese also said OOPL has hired lawyers, security experts, and civil society allies to pursue accountability. If the other party does not meet the demands by August 20, the institution will sue in a competent court and seek even greater damages.
