The Federal High Court in Benin City has dismissed a N504.3 million damages suit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stemming from a 2023 sting operation.
On Thursday, September 25, 2025, Justice C.A. Obiozor ruled against plaintiff Christopher E. Mene Esq, who sought N4.3 million in special damages and N500 million in exemplary damages, claiming EFCC operatives damaged doors during a raid on his property in Benin City on May 23, 2023.
EFCC counsel Immaculate Elodi presented one witness, operative Allison James Taiwo, while Mene called five witnesses. Justice Obiozor held that Mene failed to substantiate his claims for damages.
The court noted EFCC evidence confirming the property was used by criminals, with 18 individuals convicted and sentenced.
The judge ruled that any damages claim should target the tenants, whose tenancy agreement prohibited illegal activities and required indemnification of the landlord for resulting damages.
The court affirmed the EFCC’s actions as lawful under Section 12 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, finding no evidence of excessive or oppressive conduct.
“Law enforcement must be allowed to perform their duties without restraint,” Justice Obiozor stated.
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