By Kamal Yalwa August 11, 2025
A sting operation in the early hours of Sunday has triggered a public spat between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The EFCC said operatives from its Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, acting on credible intelligence, arrested 93 suspected internet fraudsters in Abeokuta, seizing 18 vehicles and several mobile devices. The agency’s statement did not initially specify the exact location of the raid.
Hours later, the OOPL claimed the EFCC had carried out the operation on its premises, describing it as an “invasion” executed in a “Gestapo-like manner” and demanding a public apology. It also threatened legal action against the anti-graft agency.
According to OOPL spokesperson Kehinde Adeyemi, more than 50 armed EFCC operatives stormed the facility at around 2:00 am during a private event in the amusement section of the complex. The raid reportedly caused panic among guests, with some sustaining injuries while trying to flee.
Adeyemi alleged that the operatives neither informed the library’s management nor presented a search warrant, despite the police being aware of the event beforehand.
“This action by the EFCC constitutes a clear case of invasion of private property, infringement of OOPL’s rights, and violation of the rights of attendees,” the statement read.
The OOPL said it would escalate the matter to the EFCC, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Department of State Services (DSS).
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrests but declined to address the OOPL’s allegations, maintaining that the agency’s earlier statement remained its official position. He said the suspects would be prosecuted after investigations are completed.
The OOPL, founded by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, houses a library, museum, wildlife park, sports facilities, restaurants, event centres, and a four-star hotel.
![Five Key Takeaways from Trump-Starmer Meeting in the UK Aylesbury, UK – September 18, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented a united front on major global issues during a joint press conference at Chequers, wrapping up Trump’s three-day visit to the United Kingdom. Despite recent tensions between Washington and European allies, the meeting underscored strong transatlantic ties as the two leaders discussed Ukraine, NATO, Gaza, Afghanistan, and more. 1. Trump Says Putin ‘Let Him Down’ Over Ukraine President Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the prolonged war in Ukraine, admitting he underestimated the challenge of resolving the conflict. “I thought it would be easiest because of my relationship with President Putin, but he’s let me down,” Trump said. PM Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, vowing to increase pressure on Russia and push for a lasting peace deal. 2. Divergence on Gaza, But Unity Against Hamas While both leaders condemned Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, they differed on the broader approach to the Gaza conflict. Trump avoided criticizing Israel’s ongoing military campaign, which has killed over 65,000 Palestinians, calling October 7 “one of the worst days in the history of humanity.” Starmer's previous pledge to recognize a Palestinian state was noted as a “point of disagreement,” but Trump praised the UK leader’s strong stance against Hamas. 3. Trump Praises NATO and Increased Defense Spending Once a vocal NATO critic, Trump struck a different tone, applauding the alliance’s commitment to boost defense spending. “I want to thank NATO and our wonderful head of NATO, Mark [Rutte]… They’ve done a great job,” he said, highlighting a new pledge for members to spend 5% of GDP on defense. Trump emphasized U.S. support in supplying weapons to NATO allies, stressing that the alliance was now “paying its fair share.” 4. Bagram Airbase Back in Focus Trump hinted at possible negotiations with the Taliban for the U.S. to regain access to the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, which was vacated in 2021 during the Biden administration’s withdrawal. “We’re trying to get it back,” Trump said, citing its strategic location near China’s nuclear facilities. The Taliban, however, quickly dismissed the proposal, stating they welcome engagement with the U.S. but will not allow any foreign military presence. 5. Trump Weighs in on Kimmel Firing Trump also addressed the firing of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel by ABC, following political controversy over remarks involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. “Jimmy Kimmel was fired because he had bad ratings… He’s not a talented person,” Trump said, dismissing concerns about free speech and framing the firing as a business decision. Conclusion: The Trump-Starmer meeting reflected a broad effort to reinforce U.S.-UK ties amid ongoing global crises. While areas of disagreement remain, particularly on Middle East policy, both leaders signaled alignment on Ukraine, NATO, and global security cooperation.](https://trendbrio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/USA-TRUMP-BRITAIN-AND-KEIR-STARMER.webp)