EFCC Slams Social Media Defenders Of Suspect In Officer’s Death
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has condemned the online support for Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, a medical doctor and alleged internet fraudster who fatally shot EFCC officer Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Salisu during a raid in Anambra on January 17, 2025.
According to a statement issued by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, on Sunday, the EFCC expressed outrage at the social media narratives downplaying the seriousness of the crime, emphasizing that such a death should not be trivialized.
The Commission stated, “It is heinous to reduce the death of a gallant officer who was carrying out patriotic and official duties to social media razzmatazz.”
The EFCC further expressed concern about the support for the suspect, saying it is “worrisome that some ‘faceless commentators’ are supporting an alleged criminal who ‘unleashed terror on officers of the EFCC in their line of duty.’
“There is no justification whatsoever to rationalise a murderous act.”
According to the EFCC, Salisu and his team were conducting a raid in Awka to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters when Ikechukwu, who had been monitoring the operation via CCTV, refused to open his door and opened fire on the officers, killing Salisu and injuring another.
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Ikechukwu, who is suspected of engaging in dubious online medical supplies and internet fraud, was arrested by the police, and various electronic devices were recovered from his home.
The EFCC revealed, “Preliminary investigations showed that Ikechukwu was involved in coding and online medical supplies of doubtful legitimacy. Two laptops, iPads, several recording devices were recovered from his apartment and his involvement in internet fraud is already established.
“Though currently in police custody owing to the murderous dimension of his case, the Commission will surely bring him to trial.”
The EFCC also warned about the growing threat posed by internet fraudsters, saying, “These criminals are carrying arms, involved in kidnapping, banditry, ritual killings and other deadly acts.
“The milk of human kindness demands that a grieving family, Commission and nation should be spared the shenanigans of false narratives and conjectures on the death of the slain officer.
“There is no justification whatsoever to rationalise a murderous act.”
Finally, the EFCC urged the public to avoid underestimating the severity of these crimes, saying, “Do not fold its arms or allow itself to be deceived that they are mere ‘Yahoo boys and girls.’”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
