A Nigerian man has accused operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission of misconduct during a raid on his apartment alleging unlawful seizure of personal property and demanding bail payments in foreign currency. The allegations have sparked renewed public debate over law enforcement accountability and citizens rights.
According to the man the raid took place while he was away from home. He claimed that EFCC operatives entered his apartment without his presence and removed several personal items including perfumes power banks watches and other household belongings. He further alleged that the operatives consumed some of the items and took others away without documentation.
The most controversial claim centres on bail conditions. The man alleged that the EFCC no longer accepts bail payments in the local currency and instead demands payment in foreign currency. He said this was not hearsay but based on the direct experience of his brother who is currently dealing with the agency. The claim has triggered widespread reactions online with many Nigerians expressing concern and disbelief.
Legal experts note that under Nigerian law bail conditions must be reasonable and clearly stated. They stress that demanding bail in foreign currency would raise serious constitutional and procedural questions. Nigeria operates a legal tender system based on its national currency and any deviation without statutory backing could be challenged in court.
The EFCC has not issued an official response to the specific allegations but has in the past maintained that its operations are conducted within the bounds of the law. The agency has also warned against misinformation and urged citizens with grievances to use formal complaint channels.
Civil society groups argue that the allegations reflect deeper trust issues between law enforcement agencies and the public. They point to previous complaints of excesses during raids including property seizures and lack of transparency. While some cases have led to internal investigations critics say outcomes are rarely communicated publicly.
Human rights advocates are calling for an independent review of EFCC operational practices particularly regarding searches seizures and bail conditions. They argue that anti corruption efforts must not come at the expense of fundamental rights. According to them public confidence is essential for effective law enforcement.
The controversy comes at a time when economic hardship has heightened public sensitivity to perceived abuse of power. With foreign currency scarce and expensive allegations of dollar based bail demands resonate strongly among ordinary citizens struggling to cope with rising costs of living.
Whether the EFCC responds decisively to these claims may shape public perception in the coming weeks. For many Nigerians the issue goes beyond one individual story and touches on broader questions of justice accountability and the rule of law.
