A protest erupted at the Ilorin Zonal Command office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday, fueled by the continued detention of former Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed.
Ahmed’s detention at the EFCC Ilorin office extended into a third day, with ongoing questioning over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as governor.
The protest, which began in the morning and lasted until about 12:23 pm, saw supporters of Ahmed and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) marching with placards and chanting solidarity songs. Messages on the placards included statements such as ‘Opposition Can’t Be Silenced’, ‘EFCC Not Department in APC’, ‘Governor Abdulfatah Was Transparent’, and ‘Maigida Will Not Join APC No Matter The Persecution’.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, the PDP spokesman in the state, Olusegun Olushola Adewara, condemned the prolonged detention of the former governor, emphasizing that he should be charged to court if found guilty. Adewara also alleged that Ahmed was being persecuted by the ruling government to coerce him into joining the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Addressing the protesters, an EFCC official, Micheal Nzekwe, acknowledged their right to protest peacefully, stating that the agency was diligently handling petitions received from citizens. Nzekwe assured that necessary action would be taken following the conclusion of the investigation, noting that Ahmed was cooperating with EFCC operatives.
Furthermore, Nzekwe clarified that Ahmed had been allowed visits from his lawyer and personal doctor, and bail conditions had been provided, although they had not yet been met. Subsequently, a detachment of policemen arrived at the EFCC office to maintain law and order.
