Obasanjo Library Gives EFCC 7 Days to Pay N3.5bn Over Raid

Obasanjo Library Gives EFCC 7 Days to Pay N3.5bn Over Raid

The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta, Ogun State, has given the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) a seven-day ultimatum to pay N3.5 billion in compensation over a raid on its premises.

The management said the August 10 operation caused severe damage to the reputation, business, and finances of the library and its founder, former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

OOPL Managing Director, Vitalis Ortese, told journalists on Wednesday that EFCC operatives from the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 stormed the OOPL Rounda Fun Spot at about 2 a.m. during a “Wet & Rave Splash Extravaganza” party. Ninety-three youths were arrested, while 18 vehicles and several mobile devices were seized.

According to Ortese, the operatives, led by an officer identified as “Olapade,” arrived with more than 50 armed men, fired gunshots, threatened to kill attendees, and caused panic and injuries as people tried to escape. He said officers stationed at OOPL were not briefed or involved in the operation.

The library is demanding:

N1 billion for those arrested and whose vehicles were taken, as compensation for damages and injuries.

N2.5 billion for the reputational and financial harm caused to OOPL and Chief Obasanjo.

Public apologies from both the EFCC Chairman and the Inspector-General of Police, to be published across major TV, print, and social media platforms.

A public investigation into the raid, including the alleged indiscriminate shooting.

Ortese described the raid as “unconstitutional, oppressive, and malicious,” claiming it was calculated to damage the image of the institution and its chief promoter.

OOPL Legal Adviser, Olumide Ayeni, SAN, said evidence, including a beret and bullet shells, confirmed that live ammunition was fired.

The management warned that if the demands are not met by August 20, 2025, it will take legal action and may seek damages exceeding N3.5 billion.