Group Petitions Delta Gov Over Alleged EFCC Midnight Raids

A group known as the Let’s Save Asaba Movement Initiative (LSAMI), has petitioned the Delta State governor, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, over growing allegations of midnight raids, forceful entry into residential premises, arrests, intimidation and other related alleged violations of citizens’ rights by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the state.

The petition, dated August 14, 2026, and addressed to the governor through the Office of the Director of Operations and Protocol (DOP), was signed by the conveners, Comrade Stanley Chibueze Ajemba, Comrade Desmond Nkemakilam, Comrade Nhubby, Comrade Marvin Mordi and Comrade Harrison Gwamnishu.

The group, in the petition, said they were not opposed to the EFCC’s mandate to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.

The group, however, insisted that the exercise of law-enforcement powers must be conducted within the provisions of the constitution and other applicable laws, with due regard for the fundamental rights and dignity of citizens.

The group maintained that residents should be able to live peacefully in their homes without unlawful intrusion, intimidation or unnecessary harassment.

The petition letter read: “We, the members and concerned citizens represented by the Let’s Save Asaba Movement Initiative, respectfully submit this petition to your office over growing concerns regarding alleged midnight raids, forced entry into residential premises, unlawful arrests, intimidation and other alleged violations attributed to operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) within Delta State.

“Let us make our position clear: we are not against the EFCC carrying out its lawful duties. We support the fight against financial crimes and corruption.

“However, the exercise of lawful powers must itself be conducted lawfully, professionally and with full respect for the Constitution, fundamental human rights and the rule of law.

“Your Excellency, Delta State citizens and residents are entitled to live peacefully in their homes without being subjected to unlawful intrusion, intimidation or unnecessary harassment.

“It is becoming deeply concerning when residents begin to say they are more afraid of law-enforcement agencies than criminals. No responsible government should ignore such concerns.

“As the Chief Security Officer of Delta State, you have sworn an oath to protect the people and uphold the law. We therefore appeal to Your Excellency to intervene and ensure that the rights and dignity of Delta residents are protected.

“We respectfully call on the Delta State Government to investigate allegations of unlawful EFCC raids, midnight operations, forced entry, intimidation and abuse of residents within Delta state, engage the relevant federal authorities and demand that EFCC operations within the state comply strictly with the Constitution and applicable laws.

“Ensure that residents’ fundamental rights, dignity, privacy and personal security are respected during law-enforcement operations, establish or strengthen a channel through which affected citizens can safely submit evidence and complaints concerning alleged misconduct;

“Ensure that innocent citizens are not subjected to unnecessary harassment, intimidation or humiliation, take appropriate steps to reassure the people of Delta State that their government will listen to legitimate concerns and protect their lawful rights.”

Receiving the petition on behalf of the governor, the security aide, Mr Julius Nwokoro, said their letter and message would be delivered appropriately to the governor.

As at the time of filing this report, the EFCC had yet to respond to the allegation.