The management of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta has accused operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of invading its premises in the early hours of Sunday, August 10, 2025, in what it described as a “Gestapo-like” operation.

The raid was said to occur at about 2 a.m., when more than 50 armed men, allegedly EFCC operatives led by one “Olapade,” stormed the complex, fired shots into the air, and threatened to kill people. The incident, according to management, sparked chaos and panic among guests and residents, leaving several people injured while attempting to flee.

“This morning, at about 2 am, the OOPL premises were invaded by a Gestapo-like gang of over 50 armed men, shooting guns, threatening to kill people, and purported to be from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),” the statement read. “The invasion, led by one ‘Olapade,’ caused serious panic and chaos, leading to serious injuries among participants trying to escape the shooting and near carnage that resulted, and causing terror among residents on the site.”

OOPL management said “Olapade” told its Managing Director, Mr. Vitalis Ortese, over the phone that the operation was based on intelligence about a private event in the amusement facility of the complex. The EFCC team also claimed that the police had been duly informed.

However, the management insisted the event was a private function that had been publicly attended for days, and that neither the police officers stationed at OOPL gates nor the additional police from Kemta Police Station requested by organizers were aware of any planned EFCC operation. The EFCC operatives, it said, did not present a warrant and, when questioned, replied: “We are doing our job.”

The EFCC, in a separate statement issued by spokesman Dele Oyewale, confirmed it had conducted a sting operation in Abeokuta on the same date, arresting 93 suspected internet fraudsters and recovering 18 vehicles and mobile devices. The agency, however, did not mention OOPL in its announcement. “They were arrested on Sunday, August 10, 2025, in a sting operation in Abeokuta, Ogun State, following credible intelligence about their suspected involvement in internet crimes,” Oyewale said. “They will be charged in court as soon as investigations are concluded.”

OOPL described the EFCC’s action as “an invasion of private property, infringement of rights as corporate citizens, and a blatant violation of the rights of those gathered for the event.” It said it had begun its own investigation and would take up the matter with the EFCC, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Department of State Services (DSS).

Management is demanding an explanation and public apology from the EFCC for the “gangster-like” operation and for injuries sustained during the incident. It warned that failure to comply would force it to seek redress and sanctions.