In a landmark ruling that reinforces digital rights and civil liberties, the Oyo State High Court has declared the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)’s practice of seizing visitors’ mobile phones and electronic devices at its office gates as unconstitutional and unlawful.
Justice Oluwaseun Toluwanimi Ademola-Salami delivered the judgment on July 7, 2025, in response to a suit filed by legal practitioner Adedeji Austine Falujo. The court held that the EFCC’s policy violates citizens’ rights to freedom of expression, particularly the right to receive and impart information, as guaranteed under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Falujo recounted being forced to surrender his iPhone, Samsung Flip 3, and Apple wristwatch at the EFCC’s Ibadan office before being allowed to represent a client. The court found that the absence of any legal backing for such a policy rendered it unconstitutional.
Mobile communication is a protected form of expression under Nigerian and African human rights law.
EFCC lacks constitutional authority to mandate the surrender of phones or smart devices as a condition for entry.
A perpetual injunction was issued restraining the EFCC from enforcing such policies on Falujo or any other visitor.
Legal experts and civil society advocates have hailed the decision as a victory for digital privacy and professional integrity. The ruling is expected to prompt a review of security protocols across government institutions.