The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed claims that the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, was the direct target of its recent sting operation, which led to the arrest of 93 suspected internet fraudsters.

On Wednesday, the management of the OOPL condemned the late-night operation, describing it as a calculated attack on former President Olusegun Obasanjo and a violation of guests’ rights. The statement claimed EFCC operatives invaded the OOPL Guest House, arresting people attending an event on the premises.

The OOPL management has demanded ₦3.5 billion in compensation and a public apology within seven days, threatening legal action if the demands are not met.

EFCC Clarifies: Arrest Happened at Hotel Near OOPL, Not the Library

In a statement issued on Thursday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale explained that the arrests took place at a hotel within the precincts of the OOPL, not inside the library itself.

According to Oyewale, intelligence reports revealed that the suspects had organized a pool party to celebrate alleged fraudulent activities. The party was initially scheduled to hold at two different venues but was relocated to the hotel near the OOPL in an attempt to evade security surveillance.

“The former president’s facility was not a target of EFCC’s operations. The suspects were the target and have confessed to involvement in internet crimes,” Oyewale stated.

Details of the Arrest

EFCC operatives stormed the hotel following credible intelligence that the gathering was linked to impersonation, identity theft, and cybercrime.

Preliminary profiling revealed that almost all the suspects were involved in internet-related offences, including the use of fake identities to scam unsuspecting victims.

The EFCC confirmed that 23 of the suspects will be arraigned on Friday, August 15, 2025, before Justice D. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos. The arraignment will be conducted in batches, while the remaining suspects will face court in due course.

OOPL’s Reaction and Legal Threat

The OOPL management maintains that the operation was unwarranted and embarrassing to both the guests and the institution. They allege that EFCC’s method of arrest violated the fundamental rights of those present and tarnished the reputation of the facility.

In their official statement, the OOPL insisted on monetary compensation and a public apology, describing the EFCC’s action as a blatant abuse of power.

EFCC Reaffirms Commitment to Cybercrime Fight

The EFCC stressed that its focus remains on tackling cybercrime and other forms of financial fraud across Nigeria, warning that no location will serve as a safe haven for criminals.

The anti-graft agency emphasized that operations are intelligence-driven and that lawful citizens have no reason to fear.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Arrests Made: 93 suspected internet fraudsters
• Target Location: A hotel near OOPL, not the library itself
• Charges: Impersonation, identity theft, and cybercrime
• Court Date: First batch (23 suspects) to be arraigned on August 15, 2025
• OOPL Demand: ₦3.5 billion compensation + public apology within 7 days