The tragic killing of Salisu, a dedicated operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), by suspected fraudsters—commonly referred to as “Yahoo boys”—in Awka, Anambra State, has sent shockwaves across the nation. The slain officer has now been flown to Sokoto State, where he will be laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
Sahara Reporters broke the news via its official X handle, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and subsequent actions taken by the authorities.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, personally intervened in the aftermath of the tragedy. According to reliable sources, the Army Chief visited Awka to oversee arrangements for the transportation of Salisu’s remains to Sokoto. This gesture underscores the gravity of the loss and the commitment to ensuring the officer’s final journey is dignified.
Sources familiar with the situation have revealed troubling details about the circumstances leading to Salisu’s death. Speaking to Sahara Reporters, a top official disclosed, “When EFCC operatives arrested the first group of suspected Yahoo boys, the police in Awka waylaid them. They claimed the EFCC operatives had not sought proper permission before carrying out their operation within the jurisdiction.”
This alleged interference reportedly delayed the EFCC’s efforts, complicating an already high-risk operation. The tension between the two agencies raises serious questions about inter-agency collaboration in Nigeria’s fight against cybercrime and corruption.
Salisu’s death has sparked outrage, with many Nigerians demanding a thorough investigation into the incident. Questions are being asked about the alleged role of local police in stalling the EFCC’s operation, potentially exposing the operatives to the fatal attack by the suspected Yahoo boys.
Human rights activists and anti-corruption advocates have also voiced their concerns, calling for a review of protocols governing inter-agency operations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Salisu’s tragic death is a grim reminder of the dangers faced by those on the frontlines of Nigeria’s war against corruption and cybercrime. As the nation mourns his loss, there is a renewed call for accountability, justice, and stronger synergy among security agencies to ensure that operatives like Salisu are adequately protected in the line of duty.
The burial in Sokoto is not just a ceremony—it serves as a stark symbol of the sacrifices made by Nigeria’s anti-corruption officers, as well as a rallying cry for a more unified and effective approach to combating crime in the country.
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