The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied any involvement in a recent protest at Kwara State Polytechnic, stating that its operation in Ilorin was unrelated to the institution.

In a statement on its official X handle, the commission said operatives from its Ilorin Zonal Directorate conducted a sting operation on March 24, 2026, in Agbede community, targeting two buildings linked to suspected internet fraudsters.

The operation resulted in the arrest of 30 suspects, including six students of the Polytechnic, with vehicles, phones, and laptops suspected to be proceeds of crime recovered.

“The sting operation was not remotely connected to the Polytechnic. No entrance was made into the premises of the institution and there was no disruption of any activity of the school,” the statement said.

EFCC dismissed circulating videos and claims suggesting that operatives entered the school or triggered the protest as “contrived and outright misrepresentation.”

Despite the denial, social media users challenged the commission’s account. Some alleged that operatives moved toward the Polytechnic gate during the operation, while others questioned the agency’s focus and priorities.

Comments also accused EFCC of seizing property and using excessive force, and one user claimed a suspect was wrongly arrested and extorted in a separate operation in the state.

Several critics highlighted perceived inconsistencies in the agency’s handling of investigations, contrasting actions against suspected fraudsters with broader national security concerns.

The EFCC maintained that its actions were lawful, in line with its mandate, and urged the public to report any verified misconduct through official channels.

Authorities emphasized that the Polytechnic protest was unrelated to the agency’s operations and reiterated the legality and scope of the Ilorin sting.