Ikechukwu Was Involved in Coding and Online Medical Supplies – EFCC Says as Nigerians Criticise Raid That Led to an Officer’s Death

Nigerians have criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following the death of an operative, Assistant Superintendent Aminu Sahabi Salisu, during a controversial raid in Awka, Anambra State. Many have raised concerns over the agency’s operational methods. This includes disregarding an earlier directive prohibiting night raids and the excessive force reportedly used during its operations.

On January 17, 2025, EFCC operatives raided a property at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka. The raid, which began around 3 a.m., targeted suspected internet fraudsters. It turned tragic when one of the suspects, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, opened fire, which killed Salisu and injured another operative.

Witnesses narrated that the operatives scaled a fence and attempted to force entry. They allegedly did not respond to inquiries from those inside. Fearing for his safety, Ikechukwu, who was with his wife and children, fired at the intruders, believing they were criminals.

Police sources said Ikechukwu initially hid in his ceiling before escaping to a neighbour’s ceiling, where he was arrested. He reportedly discarded the weapon, a short pump-action gun licensed to his father, after the shooting. Ikechukwu later stated that he acted in self-defence as the operatives failed to identify themselves correctly.

Nigerians have pointed out discrepancies in the EFCC’s account. Many questioned how the operatives could claim they politely requested entry while allegedly scaling fences and breaking in. Additionally, the agency has a history of employing brute force during its past raids. Others criticised the agency for continuing night raids despite the 2023 ban.

Some also noted that Ikechukwu, described by the EFCC as being involved in “coding and online medical supplies of doubtful legitimacy,” might have been wrongfully targeted. They argued that medical coding is a legitimate profession that agencies like NAFDAC better regulate.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the injured officer was first taken to a general hospital in Awka. However, doctors were unavailable. The delay in receiving medical attention led to his death after he was transferred to a private facility.

In a press release on Sunday, January 19, the EFCC described Salisu as a patriotic officer killed in the line of duty. The agency condemned what it called “irresponsible and outrageous narratives” surrounding the incident. It claimed Ikechukwu refused to open his door despite seeing the operatives on CCTV. The statement also insisted he was involved in internet fraud and other illegal activities.

Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Anambra distanced itself from Ikechukwu on Monday. He was initially referred to as a medical doctor, but the NMA clarified that Ikechukwu is neither a licensed medical doctor nor affiliated with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital. It demanded a retraction of statements linking him to the medical profession. This development raises concerns about the EFCC’s investigative procedures, as the agency acted without conducting thorough due diligence. Nigerians are calling for more clarity on the circumstances surrounding the fatal raid, including the release of the CCTV footage.

About The Author

Confidence Ubani

author

See author's posts