The life of Halisu Sahabi, an Assistant Superintendent of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was tragically cut short during a raid in Awka, Anambra State, on Friday. The young operative, who was reportedly making plans for his upcoming wedding after the “next fasting season,” was killed by a suspected internet fraudster in a shocking turn of events. Sahabi has since been laid to rest in Sokoto State, where his grieving family held a solemn burial ceremony.
Family sources revealed that the late ASE II Sahabi had been excitedly preparing for a new chapter in his life, with plans to settle down and get married. This dream, however, was abruptly shattered when he became a victim of violence in the line of duty. His death has sparked widespread outrage and underscored the risks faced by law enforcement officers tackling financial crimes in Nigeria.
Details of the raid have shed light on the harrowing moments leading to Sahabi’s death. The Anambra State Police Command confirmed on Saturday the arrest of the alleged killer, identified as Dr. Chukwuka Josiah Ikechukwu Nnamdi, a medical doctor from Ifite, Awka. According to reports, Dr. Nnamdi opened fire on the EFCC operatives, fatally wounding Sahabi and injuring another operative.
Following the shooting, Dr. Nnamdi attempted to evade capture by hiding in the ceiling of his neighbor’s house. Top police sources disclosed that after the attack, the suspect discarded the weapon—a short pump-action gun licensed to his father—by throwing it into nearby bushes. However, the combined efforts of the police and EFCC operatives led to his arrest.
The suspect’s father has since come forward, claiming his son acted in self-defense. Despite this, law enforcement sources have indicated that Dr. Nnamdi is likely to face murder charges.
One police source told SaharaReporters, “The gunman was arrested in his neighbor’s ceiling. He shot the EFCC operative, discarded the weapon, and hid in an attempt to avoid capture. His father has been at the police station, claiming the shooting was in self-defense.”
Further investigations revealed that the EFCC operatives on the night operation were not equipped with bulletproof vests, wearing only branded EFCC jackets. This revelation has sparked criticism about the operational preparedness of the commission, with many questioning whether the tragedy could have been averted with better protective gear for the officers.
The tragic death of Halisu Sahabi has left a void in the EFCC and within his family. As authorities continue to unravel the events surrounding the raid, the case has raised concerns over the safety of law enforcement officers and the challenges they face in combatting financial crimes.
Dr. Nnamdi remains in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Anambra State, awaiting further legal proceedings. His actions have not only claimed a promising young life but have also placed him at the center of a case that has gripped national attention.
Sahabi’s death is a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in their commitment to uphold justice. As his family mourns, there is widespread hope that justice will be served, ensuring that his sacrifice was not in vain.
With tensions high and questions swirling, the EFCC, the police, and Nigerians at large will be watching closely as this case unfolds.
PIONEER NEWS 