Nigerian rapper Skales has disclosed that he is still dealing with the trauma of a past raid by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following renewed controversy over the agency’s recent operation at Apple Estate on Orchid Road, Lekki, Lagos State.
Key Highlights
- Skales says he is still traumatised by a past EFCC raid.
- His comments follow viral footage of EFCC operatives scaling fences during a raid in Lekki.
- The rapper says his criticism is not an endorsement of fraud.
- EFCC defends its operatives, describing the Lekki operation as professional.
- Skales urges Nigerian youths to speak up against what he calls institutional intimidation.
The singer, whose real name is Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, spoke out after footage of EFCC operatives scaling gates and fences to gain entry into an apartment during the raid circulated online.
Reacting to the incident, Skales questioned the agency’s approach to arresting young Nigerians suspected of internet fraud, arguing that law enforcement operations should respect the rights and dignity of citizens.
Although he acknowledged the importance of the EFCC in tackling financial crimes, the rapper maintained that the agency’s methods had raised concerns about the treatment of suspects during arrests.
He also drew a comparison between the way operatives allegedly handle young people suspected of cybercrime and their approach to politicians accused of embezzling billions of naira.
Skales stressed that his criticism is not an endorsement of fraud, but a call for the anti-graft agency to conduct its operations with greater professionalism and restraint.
EFCC Defends Lekki Operation
The rapper’s reaction followed reports that a young woman was harassed during the Lekki operation while attempting to make a phone call.
In its response to the controversy, the EFCC defended the conduct of its operatives, describing the operation as professional.
The commission alleged that the woman had attempted to use her phone to alert suspects to the presence of its personnel.
It confirmed that the device was temporarily seized before being returned to her.
However, the agency’s explanation has not stopped questions about the conduct of its operatives during raids on residential buildings and the need to protect the rights of people who may not be directly involved in an investigation.
Skales Recalls Own Ordeal
Beyond criticising the latest operation, Skales revealed that his concerns were informed by a similar experience he had personally endured several years ago.
According to the musician, he was subjected to a raid by the EFCC that left him traumatised, with the emotional effects continuing long after the incident.
Skales also called on Nigerian youths to unite against what he described as institutional intimidation, urging them not to remain silent about alleged abuses.
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The controversy has once again raised questions about the balance between the EFCC’s responsibility to investigate financial crimes and the need to ensure that arrests are carried out lawfully and with respect for human rights.
While the commission maintains that its operatives acted professionally during the Lekki raid, Skales’ account highlights the importance of transparency, accountability and public confidence in the country’s anti-corruption efforts.
The EFCC has continued to conduct operations targeting suspected internet fraudsters as part of its broader mandate to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. However, the manner in which such operations are executed remains a subject of public scrutiny.
For Skales, the latest incident has revived painful memories of his own encounter with the agency and strengthened his resolve to speak against what he considers intimidation during law enforcement operations.
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