EFCC denies targeting Obasanjo Library in arrest of 93 fraud suspects, says raid occurred near premises, not in library. 23 suspects to face trial
EFCC denies targeting Obasanjo Library in its recent anti-cybercrime operation that led to the arrest of 93 suspected internet fraudsters in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission issued a firm rebuttal on Thursday following outrage from the management of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL).
The OOPL had condemned the late-night sting operation conducted within its premises, calling it a “calculated attack” on former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
It demanded a ₦3.5 billion compensation and a public apology within seven days or threatened legal action.
Arrests Were Nearby, Not Inside – EFCC
In its clarification, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale emphasized that the raid took place at a hotel located near** the OOPL—not at the library itself.
“The former president’s facility was not a target of EFCC’s operations,” Oyewale stated. “The suspects were the target and have confessed to involvement in internet crimes.”
According to Oyewale, the suspects had initially planned their pool party at two other locations, but moved it to the hotel within the OOPL precincts to avoid detection.
The agency acted on intelligence that the gathering was a celebration of their fraudulent activities.
Profiling of the 93 arrested individuals revealed links to crimes such as impersonation, identity theft, and internet fraud.
Legal Action to Follow
EFCC confirmed that 23 of the suspects will be arraigned on Friday, August 15, 2025, before Justice D. Dipeolu at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The rest will be charged in subsequent batches.
“This operation was intelligence-led and targeted. There was no political motive or symbolic intent to disrespect any individual or institution,” Oyewale added.
Tensions High as OOPL Demands Apology
Despite EFCC’s clarification, the OOPL management has not withdrawn its demands. In its initial statement, it described the operation as a “stark and blatant violation” of guests’ rights and a reputational blow to the legacy of former President Obasanjo.
Observers warn the incident may inflame further tensions between institutions unless both sides de-escalate.
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As legal proceedings begin, public attention now shifts to the outcome of the fraud trials—and whether the OOPL will proceed with its threatened lawsuit.
