Nightclub owners in Ondo state have expressed outrage over a recent raid by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the operation as excessive and conducted in a Gestapo style.
According to the Ondo State Lounge and Club Owners Association (OSLACOA), the masked EFCC operatives looted expensive drinks from their bars during the invasion.
Speaking at a press briefing, OSLACOA representative, Abayomi Ajepe, called the actions of the anti-graft agents barbaric.
Ajepe explained that at first, the operatives were mistaken for armed robbers as they brutalised customers before whisking them away.
Recounting the invasion of Signatures Club, manager Ayo Abass-Akinwande revealed that the agents cleared several expensive wines and whiskies off the shelves, drinking some in the process.
The staff, identifiable by their uniforms, were threatened with being shot while lying face down under the orders of the masked and heavily armed agents.
He said: “At about 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2024, the men of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) came into our premises. There were about 40 of them, and they arrived in about 10 unregistered Toyota buses. The only thing that could identify them was their red jackets and guns. They introduced themselves to our gate security with beatings, causing some to sustain injuries.
“After gaining access, they ordered everyone to lie down on the floor, using snooker sticks (cues) to enforce compliance. Both male and female customers were mercilessly beaten. They also released tear gas in the club. Fortunately, we had adequate first aid materials on-site, which our staff used to assist customers with medical emergencies.
“While some staffers were identified and allowed to leave, others were still beaten. The CCTV room was ransacked, and the engine taken away. We want to clarify that no one had reserved our premises for any illicit party; we are just a business entity conducting our duly registered activities.”
Ayo Alabi, owner of Abah Royale Hotel and Suites, also expressed shock at how the agents harassed couples who were lodged in his facility.
