The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has strongly condemned the online support and narratives surrounding the tragic death of Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Salisu (ASE II), who was killed during an operation in Awka, Anambra State, on January 17, 2025.
The suspect in the fatal attack, Dr. Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, an alleged internet fraudster and medical doctor, was apprehended by the Anambra State Police Command after a manhunt. According to police sources, he was found hiding in the ceiling of a neighbor’s home.
In an official statement issued by Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, the Commission expressed profound grief over the loss of their officer while denouncing the “irresponsible and inhuman” narratives circulating on social media in defense of the suspect.
“It is heinous and deeply troubling to reduce the death of a gallant officer who was performing his patriotic and lawful duties to mere social media theatrics. Such callousness undermines the gravity of the crime and the sacrifice of those who risk their lives daily to rid our nation of corruption and fraud,” the statement read.
The EFCC revealed that during the raid in Awka, operatives were met with violent resistance, culminating in the shooting of Officer Sahabi. The Commission noted with alarm the growing trend of individuals rationalizing criminal acts against law enforcement officers, adding that this development threatens the safety and morale of operatives working to protect the country from financial crimes.
“It is both shocking and worrisome that faceless commentators and online sympathizers are attempting to justify a cold-blooded act of murder while vilifying those who serve the nation. There is no moral, legal, or ethical justification for this heinous crime,” Oyewale stated.
The EFCC further expressed concern about the misinformation being spread regarding the incident. The Commission reiterated that the deceased officer was part of a lawful operation targeting organized cybercrime syndicates in the region, a mission necessitated by the rising cases of internet fraud in Anambra State.
The anti-graft agency vowed to pursue justice for Officer Sahabi, describing him as a “dedicated and fearless operative who gave his life for the country.” The EFCC called on Nigerians to resist the temptation to sympathize with criminal elements, noting that such actions embolden offenders and endanger law enforcement efforts.
Reports from SaharaReporters confirmed that Dr. Chukwuka Josiah Ikechukwu Nnamdi, identified as the alleged shooter, is a licensed medical practitioner from Ifite, Anambra State. His involvement in internet fraud and subsequent violent resistance against EFCC operatives has shocked many, given his professional background.
The Anambra State Police Command disclosed that Nnamdi attempted to evade capture by hiding in the ceiling of his neighbor’s residence but was eventually apprehended. He is currently in custody and is expected to face charges for both fraud and the murder of Officer Sahabi.
The EFCC emphasized the need for the public to stand with law enforcement agencies in their fight against corruption and financial crimes. The agency warned that justifying criminal acts or spreading false narratives only serves to embolden fraudsters and undermine the sacrifices of operatives like Sahabi.
“This is not just a loss for the EFCC but a loss for Nigeria,” the Commission concluded. “Let us honor the memory of our fallen heroes by supporting the rule of law and denouncing those who would harm the men and women who serve to protect us.”
As investigations continue, the EFCC has pledged to ensure that the suspect faces the full wrath of the law, serving as a stern warning to those who would attack law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
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