The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has strongly condemned the “irresponsible and inhumane” speculation circulating on social media regarding the tragic death of one of its officers, Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Salisu, who was killed during an operation.
The Commission decried the reduction of the officer’s sacrifice to sensationalized rumors, calling such actions both outrageous and heartless.
Salisu was killed on January 17, 2025, while carrying out his duties as part of a team attempting to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters.
One of the suspects, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, allegedly shot and killed Salisu during the operation. The EFCC reiterated that there is no justification for such violent acts.
A statement issued by the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, on Sunday, January 19, expressed the Commission’s sorrow over the loss of Salisu and condemned the social media speculation surrounding the incident. The statement read, in part.
“The EFCC mourns the death of Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Salisu, who was killed in cold blood while performing his duties on January 17, 2025. It is deeply troubling that some have chosen to spread callous, inhumane, and unfounded narratives about the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. To reduce the sacrifice of a brave officer, who was serving his country, to social media sensationalism is despicable.
“Even more alarming is the fact that certain individuals are siding with a criminal who attacked EFCC officers during an operation. There is no excuse for this murderous act. We call for respect and compassion as the family, the Commission, and the nation grieve.”
Salisu, along with other EFCC investigators, was conducting an operation at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close in Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, on the morning of January 17. The operation, aimed at arresting suspected internet fraudsters, was properly documented at both the Anambra State Command Headquarters and the Area Command of the Nigeria Police.
While 37 suspects were initially apprehended without incident, Ikechukwu, who noticed the officers through a CCTV camera, refused to open his door when approached. Despite identification and requests for cooperation, Ikechukwu opened fire, killing Salisu and injuring another officer.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Ikechukwu was involved in online fraud activities, including the coding and distribution of questionable medical supplies. Items such as laptops, iPads, and various recording devices were seized from his residence. Ikechukwu, currently in police custody, will face trial for his actions.
