EFCC condemns social media support for officer’s alleged killer
Tamarauemi Ebimini
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has strongly criticized the support for the killer of one of its officers, Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASEII Aminu Sahabi Salisu, on social media.
Salisu was tragically killed on Friday while on duty to arrest suspected internet fraudsters in Anambra State.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the EFCC expressed deep sorrow over Salisu’s death and condemned the false and hurtful stories being spread online.
The statement, signed by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity, said that it was wrong to defend the actions of the suspect, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, who shot and killed Salisu.
The EFCC called out those spreading these misleading stories and urged them to show respect for Salisu’s family and for the country.
Recall that the alleged killing occurred when Salisu and his team went to a building in Awka, Anambra State, to arrest internet fraudsters.
While 37 people were arrested without incident, Ikechukwu, who was under suspicion, refused to open his door when asked by the officers. He then shot at the investigators, killing Salisu and injuring another officer.
The statement reads, “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, expresses grief on the loss of one of its officers, Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE11 Aminu Sahabi Salisu who was killed in cold blood while on a legitimate duty on January 17, 2025 by a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu.
“The Commission views with great concern the irresponsible, callous, inhuman and outrageous narratives being circulated on social media on the whys and wherefores of the fatal accident.
“It is heinous to reduce the death of a gallant officer who was carrying out patriotic and official duties to social media razzmatazz.
“More worrisome is the fact that some faceless commentators are pitching their tents with 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.
“Preliminary investigations showed that Ikechukwu was involved in coding and online medical supplies of doubtful legitimacy.
“Though currently in police custody owing to the murderous dimension of his case, the Commission will surely bring him to trial.
“The EFCC also wishes to alert the public that the activities of internet fraudsters are becoming patently hazardous to public safety and security.
“Intelligence has shown that these criminals are carrying arms, involved in kidnapping, banditry, ritual killings and other deadly acts.
“As for the EFCC, every subsequent attack on any of its officers will be met with the force of the law.”
Despite this loss, the EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to fighting corruption and internet fraud in Nigeria. They also thanked other agencies and individuals for their support during this difficult time.
“While mourning the loss of its officer who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation, the Commission appreciates the invaluable support, condolences and prompt response of sister agencies and well-meaning individuals standing shoulder to shoulder with it at this trying time,” the EFCC added.
