Rita Odafe
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained the reasons behind the raid on Urban 94.5 FM in Enugu State.
According to reports from TORI, EFCC agents stormed the station on the night of October 14, 2024, apprehending a presenter named Favour Ekoh during her live broadcast.
In addition to Ekoh, three other staff members were arrested, and substantial broadcasting equipment was confiscated during the operation.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale clarified in a statement on October 15 that the raid aimed to summon Ekoh regarding her alleged involvement in a Ponzi scheme that swindled about 50 individuals out of 700 million naira.
Oyewale detailed that the chairman of the radio station attempted to impede the investigation by locking the gates, effectively holding the operatives inside the premises.
The station’s Managing Director, Bamikole Owoyomi, and two security guards were detained for obstructing the commission’s officials from executing their duties.
However, four staff members were questioned and released subsequent to the incident.
“On Monday, October 14, 2024, a team from the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Directorate sought to invite Favour Ekoh, the Prime Time host.
“She is being investigated for alleged fraud tied to a Ponzi scheme involving 700 million naira and around 50 victims.
“Victims claimed that Ekoh had coaxed them into investing in ‘Life Trading’ through a company named Leverage Index Limited, promising 10 percent returns on their investments over time.
“They reported that after their investments, the office was shut down, with no returns or principal being refunded.
“As the sole point of contact, Ekoh shattered their link when the company ceased operations. The operatives identified themselves as EFCC officers with a warrant for her arrest upon arrival at the station.
“Despite their efforts to inform the station’s management of their purpose, a staff member called the Chairman, who ordered the gates locked, keeping them confined.
“Under duress, the operatives called for backup, leading to the arrest of Owoyomi, Ekoh, and the guards for their obstruction.
“Due to the nature of the allegations, a covert operation was necessary to prevent her from fleeing the scene.
“The EFCC did not disrupt the station’s broadcast activities, nor was any equipment damaged, and Ekoh was released after providing a statement.
“The Managing Director and the security personnel have since been released after being detained for obstructing justice.
“The EFCC values the media as an essential partner in combating financial crimes and corruption but condemns the unlawful interference with its operations by the radio station staff.
“The credibility of Ekoh, a key suspect in this Ponzi scheme, raises concerns about her professional integrity.
“The Commission calls upon the International Press Institute (IPI) and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) to conduct an inquiry into the station’s practices, ensuring adherence to ethical standards.”
