Following Friday June 7th, 2024 Arrests of 127 male and female youths at various lounges in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the National Association of Nigerian Students ( NAN) has decried the modus operandi of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
NANS, the apex body of students in Nigeria and in the Diaspora said much as it acknowledged the need for the EFCC to combat cybercrime and uphold the rule of law, it frowned at the abuse of the rights of the suspects, saying the breakdown of law and order witnessed during the raid is deeply concerning and unjust.
The association in a statement signed by Sen. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, President of the Senate, NANS Headquarters urged the commission to carry out its operations with precision and obey the rule of law in its dealings with human beings.
“Despite our ongoing engagement with the EFCC command, we continue to observe a high rate of abuse against our citizens. The EFCC should operate with intelligence and precision, targeting only those for whom they have concrete evidence, not innocent citizens who are merely trying to find joy amidst the challenging circumstances in our country.
“The primary duty of the EFCC is to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes, ensuring the integrity of our financial systems and protecting the public from fraud and corruption.”
NANS cautioned authorities of the EFCC to guide against the use brute force that violates the rights of the citizens in carrying out its mandate
“The EFCC must employ more effective strategies to identify and apprehend suspects. They possess the necessary information to focus their efforts on genuine criminals, rather than exploiting such operations to mistreat and violate the rights of the general populace.
“They must adhere to the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for the dignity of every individual.
“We are calling for immediate sanctions against the erring officers involved in the maltreatment of innocent ladies during this raid. We also demand a thorough review and adjustment of the EFCC’s operational procedures to ensure such abuses do not recur.
“Furthermore, we urge the EFCC to engage in continuous training and development for their officers to enhance their investigative skills and ensure they conduct their operations in line with international human rights standards.
“The agency must build public trust by demonstrating a commitment to justice and human rights, not by instilling fear and perpetuating abuse.
“We stand firmly against any form of human rights abuse and will continue to advocate for the protection and dignity of every Nigerian citizen,” NANS affirmed
