Stakeholders during the meeting

The Ogun State Entertainment Stakeholders Forum has petitioned the State House of Assembly to intervene in what it describes as disruptive and unlawful raids by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abeokuta.

The group’s complaint follows an August 10 operation in which EFCC operatives stormed the Green Legacy Hotel, located within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, arresting several youths suspected of internet fraud.

Speaking at a press conference in Abeokuta, Adewusi Emmanuel (popularly known as Coy Birijo) said the forum supports EFCC’s anti-crime mandate but accused the agency of breaching constitutional rights and its own guidelines. He cited Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution, which protects personal liberty, and the EFCC’s 2023 ban on overnight sting operations—policies he said were violated in the raid.

Emmanuel alleged that some young people remain in EFCC custody without due process and that recent operations lacked visible warrants or court orders. He urged lawmakers to push for operational reforms, legislative oversight, and dialogue between security agencies and entertainment industry players.

Female entertainer Amu Omobolanle stressed the impact on event planning, saying raids during shows scare away patrons. “Entertainment has helped reduce unemployment, robbery, and other crimes, but now DJs, hype men, MCs, and dancers are afraid to work,” she said.

Another stakeholder, Ikokoh Temitope, highlighted the sector’s economic potential, citing Lagos’ 2024 festive season, where nightlife, tourism, and hospitality generated ₦111.5 billion in December alone. He warned that unpredictable enforcement could stall Ogun’s emerging entertainment industry.

The forum urged the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, and other lawmakers to engage EFCC leadership, protect livelihoods, and support policies that allow the sector to grow without fear of harassment.