The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied responsibility for a student protest that erupted at Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, on Wednesday.
In a statement on its X handle on Thursday, the commission said operatives from its Ilorin Zonal Directorate carried out a sting operation in the Agbede community over suspected internet fraud. The raid reportedly led to the arrest of 30 suspected fraudsters, six of whom are students of the polytechnic.
“The operation, carried out on Wednesday, March 24, 2026, yielded the arrest of 30 suspected internet fraudsters, six of whom are students of Kwara State Polytechnic,” the EFCC said. The agency added that eight vehicles suspected to be proceeds of crime, along with mobile phones and laptops, were recovered. Preliminary profiling indicated the six students were actively involved in fraudulent activities.
The EFCC dismissed claims that the operation sparked the protest. “No entrance was made into the premises of the institution, and there was no disruption of any school activity. It is untenable to link any protest by some students of the Polytechnic to the lawful operation of the EFCC,” the statement read. The commission described videos circulating online linking the protest to its activities as “contrived” and a misrepresentation of events.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to professionalism and transparency, emphasizing that channels for reporting unethical conduct by its staff remain open.
Earlier reports by PUNCH Online said tension erupted at the polytechnic as students panicked when EFCC operatives were seen patrolling areas near the campus during ongoing exams. Eyewitnesses said confusion spread after a student was allegedly chased by an officer, prompting some students to protest by burning tyres along sections of Old Jebba Road.
Security was later strengthened, with a police van from the Oke-Oyi Division stationed at the school gate to maintain order. The polytechnic management confirmed that calm had been restored, describing the protest as brief and limited. “No students were arrested during the operation,” it said, while commending the swift intervention of security personnel.
The EFCC emphasized that the operation targeted the Agbede community, not the polytechnic, and reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the rule of law and the safety of Nigerians.
