OOPL Demands N3.5bn Compensation, Public Apology Over EFCC Raid

The management of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has given the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Inspector-General of Police seven days to issue a public apology for what it described as the “unlawful invasion” of its premises last Sunday.

It is also demanding N3.5 billion in restitution—N1 billion for damages to patrons, including those arrested and injured during the operation, and N2.5 billion for reputational and commercial losses to the institution and its chief promoter, former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Addressing journalists in Abeokuta, OOPL Managing Director Vitalis Ortese condemned the EFCC’s actions as “unconstitutional, oppressive, and actuated by malice,” stressing that the raid was a direct assault on the institution’s integrity and on Obasanjo himself.

On August 9 and 10, EFCC operatives stormed the OOPL premises, arresting 93 suspected internet fraudsters, and seizing 18 vehicles and several mobile devices. Ortese noted that more than 100 guests, including residents of the OOPL complex, were subjected to brutality despite committing no offence other than attending a lawful party.

The management has demanded a full investigation by relevant security agencies, with findings published publicly. It also insists that separate public apologies be issued by both the EFCC Chairman and the Inspector-General of Police across all major media platforms, including television, newspapers, and social media.

Ortese warned that if the demands are not met within seven days, OOPL will take legal action without further notice, and the claims pursued in court may exceed the current N3.5 billion request. Legal counsel, security experts, and civil society groups have already been engaged to ensure accountability and protect the rights of OOPL patrons and staff.