The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained the events leading to the death of a Lagos resident, Endurance Udeke, during a sting operation at Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1, on Tuesday, November 4.
In a statement on Saturday, the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, described the incident as “unfortunate” and attributed the tragedy to what he called the “suicidal action” of the deceased.
“The Commission feels obliged to clear the air on the circumstances leading to the passing of citizen Endurance Udeke, a resident of apartment W6a, Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos,” Oyewale stated.
According to the EFCC, operatives were in the estate to arrest suspected internet fraudsters.
The operation reportedly proceeded without incident until Udeke and another resident attempted to evade arrest.
“The operation was smooth sailing in all the apartments and four suspected internet fraudsters were arrested,” the statement said.
“However, Udeke and one other resident of apartment W6a got wind of the operation and tried to escape arrest by jumping down from the four-storey building.”
Oyewale disclosed that Udeke did not survive the fall despite medical attempts to revive him.
“Udeke did not survive the suicidal efforts, in spite of medical interventions made to rescue him,” he said.
He added that the second resident survived after being stabilised and treated at the hospital.
The Commission said it had contacted Udeke’s family to explain what occurred and the steps taken to save his life.
“As a responsible law enforcement agency, the Commission contacted Udeke’s family with details of the circumstances leading to his death. Efforts and medical interventions made to ensure his survival before his eventual passing were appreciated by the family,” Oyewale noted.
He stressed that EFCC operatives had no physical contact with Udeke before he jumped.
“The Commission is shocked at the suicidal action of the deceased. There was no contact between officers of the Commission and the deceased before the unfortunate incident,” he said.
Oyewale said the EFCC had reported the incident to the Nigeria Police Force, which has since commenced investigations.
“The Commission reported the incident to the Police, which has begun an investigation into the incident,” he added.
He urged members of the public not to panic during EFCC raids, saying only those with criminal concerns have reason to be afraid.
“While we await the outcome of the investigation, it is important to remind the public that no one with nothing to hide has reason to be afraid of EFCC sting operation,” he stated.
The incident has sparked public debate, with many calling for impartial investigations to establish the full circumstances surrounding Udeke’s death.
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