ABEOKUTA– The Ogun State Entertainment Stakeholders Forum has petitioned the state House of Assemby over the recent invasion and arrest of about 93 suspected internet fraudsters by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at one of its’ event in Abeokuta, the state capital.
The forum therefore called on the speaker, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide to intervene in what they described as disruptive and unlawful operational activities of the EFCC in the state.
Speaking with newsmen, Emmanuel Adewusi noted that while the forum fully supports the statutory mandate of the agency to combat financial crimes, it however detest the indiscriminate raid on nightlife establishment, and violations of citizens rights in the course of carrying out their duties.
Adewusi lamented the unlawful detentions of innocent victims, adding that the August 10 raid was a direct breach of the EFCC Act, which mandates judicial authorization for property seizures or asset freezes.
He noted that the entertainment and hospitality sector is one of the largest employers of youth in the State, which has been severely impacted, with patronage plummeting due to fear of further raids.
In her remarks, Amu Omobolanle stated that the entertainment and hospitality sector is a critical pillar of Ogun State’s economy and must be protected.
“We are not saying EFCC should not do their job, but they should do it in a way that will not affect event planners. Not during a show when they will scare people away.
“Entertainment has helped a lot, it has reduced unemployment, robbery and other crimes. We have DJs, hype men, MCs, dancers who can no longer come out because people are scared. They can’t hold shows because people won’t attend due to fear of EFCC”, she said.
Meanwhile, Ikokoh Temitope while reeling out data, stated that night life and entertainment if well harness can generate 24% of internally generated revenue.
“During the 2024 festive season, Lagos nightlife, tourism, and hospitality sectors generated an estimated ₦111.5 billion in December alone, with nightlife valued at ₦1.5 trillion annually.
“The entertainment and hospitality sector creates high-value jobs, drives tourism, and stimulates local entrepreneurship. Disruptions such as unpredictable enforcement actions risk stalling these benefits before they fully materialize”, he added
The forum therefore urged the Ogun State government to recognize the sector as a key economic driver, protect businesses and patrons through fair regulation, and invest in infrastructure and partnerships that could replicate the successes seen in Lagos and the rising potential in Abuja.
