The Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA, acknowledges an incident involving operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, who conducted a raid on private hostels in the Orita Obele area of Akure metropolis where some FUTA students reside.
Contrary to erroneous reports circulating, the EFCC operatives did not intrude upon FUTA premises, nor did they conduct any operation within the university’s hostels or surroundings. The incident occurred in privately-owned hostels off-campus.
Nevertheless, the University expresses concern regarding the timing and manner of the operation, purportedly carried out around 2 AM on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Reports indicate that the operatives forcefully entered and awakened sleeping students, treating them unjustly during the operation. Such aggressive tactics were deemed unnecessary and potentially hazardous. The University emphasizes the importance of adhering to due process without causing physical or psychological harm to anyone. Fortunately, unforeseen circumstances prevented any serious incidents during the operation in the off-campus hostels.
FUTA is collaborating with the EFCC to confirm the identity of those apprehended, verify their status as students, and ensure that innocent FUTA students are not unfairly penalized for alleged offenses.
The University strongly condemns all forms of antisocial behavior, including criminal acts, and supports efforts to hold perpetrators accountable within the framework of the law. The university’s rules and regulations outlined in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as the University Handbook and Matriculation oath, specify various penalties for students who violate their obligations or engage in unlawful activities. These guidelines will inform the University’s response to the current situation.
Adegbenro Adebanjo
Director, Corporate Communication FUTA