Nigerian singer Skales has sparked a heated debate on social media following his reaction to the tragic death of an officer of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during a raid.
The artist, known for his candid remarks, took to his Twitter account to express his views, recounting his personal ordeal with the EFCC and how it left him and his family traumatized.
His statement, laced with mixed emotions, has since gone viral, attracting both criticism and support.
Skales tweeted, "It's quite unfortunate that someone lost his life, but they had it coming.
Imagine the trauma I and my family still face till now.
I should be feeling bad, but I actually don't.
They had it coming. Imagine that day I didn’t keep my cool—they would have probably switched the story just like they tried to do and shoot me or something.
I will never forgive them. They had it coming."
The artist’s bold response stemmed from a harrowing experience he claims to have endured at the hands of EFCC operatives.
According to Skales, his family, including his newborn child, was subjected to what he described as an unprovoked and aggressive raid by armed officers.
In a subsequent tweet, the singer shed more light on the incident, responding to a user who defended the EFCC’s right to forcefully enter homes during investigations.
"When they came to my house, they didn’t ask. They didn’t knock.
They just broke the door. And I’m not a fraudster. My whole family was there with me, including my newborn," he recounted.
He added, "Imagine being woken up with four AK-47s and three sledgehammers, like a goddamn horror movie, and all this because they saw luxurious cars in front of my house."
The tweets have ignited a polarizing conversation online, with many Nigerians sharing similar experiences of alleged overreach by law enforcement agencies.
Some users commended Skales for speaking up about what they described as a persistent issue of abuse of power. Others, however, criticized his lack of empathy for the deceased officer, emphasizing the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel in the line of duty.
One user, Oyedele O., tweeted, "Can you guys stop this stupid agenda? Law enforcement officers have the right to tear down your door after you might have been told to open it."
This remark prompted further backlash, with critics arguing that such justifications normalize excessive force and disregard for due process.
Skales’ revelations also highlight a growing mistrust between Nigerians and certain arms of law enforcement, particularly the EFCC, which has faced multiple allegations of misconduct in recent years.
His tweets paint a vivid picture of the emotional and psychological toll these encounters can have on innocent individuals and their families. The mention of his newborn child being present during the ordeal struck a chord with many, prompting discussions on the need for reforms within the agency.
While the circumstances surrounding the death of the EFCC officer remain under investigation, Skales’ unapologetic stance has drawn attention to a broader issue: the accountability of law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.
Critics argue that the EFCC’s methods often blur the line between enforcement and harassment, particularly when targeting individuals suspected of financial crimes.
In recent years, the agency has ramped up its operations, frequently raiding homes of suspected internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo boys.” While the EFCC maintains that these actions are necessary to combat cybercrime, there have been numerous reports of innocent individuals being caught in the crossfire.
Skales’ account is one of many stories that shed light on the human cost of these operations. His tweets have reignited calls for the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to prioritize professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights in their operations.
As the debate rages on, some social media users have called for a more nuanced discussion around the balance between effective law enforcement and the protection of citizens' rights.
The tragic loss of the EFCC officer has also underscored the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel, who are often exposed to high-risk situations. However, the questions surrounding the methods employed during raids remain unresolved.
Skales’ statement, “They had it coming,” reflects the deep frustration felt by many Nigerians who believe they have been unfairly targeted or traumatized by law enforcement agencies. His refusal to forgive the EFCC for their actions has resonated with those who feel similarly wronged, sparking widespread solidarity online.
At the same time, the backlash against his perceived lack of compassion highlights the complexity of the issue. It serves as a reminder that law enforcement personnel are also individuals with families, and their deaths should not be trivialized, regardless of the circumstances.
The situation has drawn attention from public figures, legal experts, and human rights advocates, many of whom are calling for comprehensive reforms within the EFCC. Suggestions include enhanced training for officers, stricter adherence to due process, and the establishment of an independent body to investigate allegations of misconduct.
For Skales, the ordeal remains a painful memory that continues to affect him and his family.
His tweets reflect the lingering trauma of that day and the belief that justice is yet to be served.
While his reaction has sparked controversy, it also highlights a larger narrative about the relationship between Nigerian citizens and law enforcement agencies.
As public discourse continues, one thing is clear: the EFCC must address the concerns raised by individuals like Skales and others who have shared similar experiences.
Only then can trust be rebuilt, and the agency’s reputation restored.
The tragic loss of life, coupled with the allegations of misconduct, serves as a sobering reminder of the need for accountability and reform.
The EFCC and other law enforcement agencies must strike a delicate balance between fulfilling their mandate and ensuring that the rights and dignity of citizens are upheld.
For now, Skales’ words continue to echo across social media, fueling a conversation that is long overdue.
The question remains: will this incident serve as a catalyst for change, or will it fade into the background like so many others
before it? Only time will tell.
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