In a significant and compassionate move, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has stepped in to advocate for the release of innocent Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) students who were unjustly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations of internet fraud. This intervention reflects the governor’s commitment to justice and the protection of the students’ rights.
A Distressing Event Unfolds
A thread: Everything we know about the EFCC arresting over 60 OAU students around 4 am. Read till the end 👇#OAUTwitter #EFCC pic.twitter.com/YjSKTL0kTd
— inside OAU Innovations (IOI) (@InsideoauMedia) November 1, 2023
The story began on November 1st when a distressing event unfolded at Nigeria’s OAU, where over 60 students were unjustly arrested . The involvement of the EFCC in this operation raised questions about its legality, leaving the nation in shock and concern. The students were taken from their Oduduwa Estate residences between the hours of 1 a.m – 4 a.m., triggering a mobilization on social media, where videos of the incident circulated, intensifying public outrage.
EFCC’s Actions and Public Outcry
EFCC reportedly abduct over 60 OAU students at midnight #OAUTwitter pic.twitter.com/sbGdyjKpD0
— inside OAU Innovations (IOI) (@InsideoauMedia) November 1, 2023
The EFCC’s role in this event, coupled with allegations of seized valuables, drew strong condemnation from the OAU community. The OAU community and the general public called for transparency and accountability, seeking answers about the students’ well-being and the circumstances of their arrests.
The Governor’s Intervention
I have instructed the state's Attorney General to work with the school administration, leadership of the Student Union, and the @officialEFCC to safeguard the rights of the students and ensure that due process is meticulously adhered to. I will continue to keep close watch
— Gov Ademola Adeleke (@AAdeleke_01) November 1, 2023
Following these morning arrests, Governor Ademola Adeleke took a proactive stance. In a tweet, he stated, “I have instructed the state’s Attorney General to work with the school administration, leadership of the Student Union, and the @officialEFCC to safeguard the rights of the students and ensure that due process is meticulously adhered to. I will continue to keep a close watch.”
A Beacon of Hope for Justice
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s intervention brings a ray of hope for justice and fairness in a challenging situation. His commitment to upholding the rights and future of the innocent OAU students is a demonstration of leadership in action, emphasizing the importance of due process and transparency.
We pray that our comrades would be brought back safe and sound.