Story by Iyiola Ayomide
Umuahia, Abia State – Ugochukwu Ezeanyagu, an economist and contractor from Umuahia, is demanding N150 million in compensation and a public apology from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following a midnight raid on his home.
In a petition filed through his lawyers, Equity Law Partners, Ezeanyagu alleges that approximately 15 armed and masked EFCC officials stormed his residence at 2 am on December 6th, 2024.
The petition, signed by Shankyula, T.S., details a harrowing account of the raid. Ezeanyagu claims the officials, some wielding AK-47s, slapped him and his eight-month-pregnant wife, accusing him of internet fraud.
After failing to find any evidence to support their allegations, the officials reportedly apologised before leaving. However, not before allegedly stealing bottles of wine from his refrigerator and slapping his security guard.
Ezeanyagu’s lawyers characterise the EFCC’s actions as criminal trespass, unlawful invasion of privacy, criminal intimidation, assault, and theft.
The petition highlights the significant psychological trauma suffered by Ezeanyagu and his wife, who reportedly had to be hospitalized following the incident.
The lawyers assert that the raid was conducted without a search warrant and that CCTV footage partially documenting the events exists.
The petition states: “The criminal trespass of the EFCC men to Our Client’s house at such an ungodly hour…remains questionable, suspicious and should be probed very seriously.
“Our Client’s right to privacy was violated. He and his wife were intimidated, assaulted, manhandled and humiliated.”
The lawyers are calling for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the EFCC officials and demand justice for their client.
In addition to the financial compensation, they seek a public apology from the agency.
The petition concludes by emphasizing the need to hold rogue officials accountable and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The EFCC is yet to respond to the allegations.
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