OAU students storm EFCC office, demand release of schoolmates arrested by the anti-graft agency

OAU students storm EFCC office, demand release of schoolmates arrested by the anti-graft agency

Students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, made a forceful appearance at the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday, vehemently protesting the arrest of their fellow students by EFCC operatives.

According to information from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the students, arriving in a convoy consisting of three Coaster buses and three Hummer buses, descended upon the EFCC’s office with the primary objective of securing the release of their detained colleagues.

The protest was reportedly organized and led by the Students’ Union Government of Obafemi Awolowo University.

Interestingly, the university’s management asserted that they had not received any communication from the anti-graft agency regarding allegations or accusations of financial misconduct against any of their students.

NAN reported that over 70 students from the institution were apprehended by EFCC officials in a late-night operation targeting off-campus hostels. The reasons for these arrests remained unconfirmed as of the time of reporting.

Abass Ojo, the Students’ Union President, expressed concern over the situation, stating, “We have gathered information that 72 students were picked up from their hostels, with their phones and cars confiscated. But the critical question remains: how can individuals be arrested simply for owning iPhones, laptops, and automobiles?”

Another student, known as Ewatee, disclosed that female students were among those detained, and even some newcomers who were merely visiting their senior colleagues were caught up in the arrests.

The exact motives behind these arrests remain unclear as students continue to demand answers from the EFCC.

Dele Olayinka

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