A tragic scene unfolded in Lekki, Lagos, as a man identified as Endurance Udeke lost his life after jumping from a four-storey building during a raid conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday, explaining that the operation, which occurred on November 4, targeted suspected internet fraudsters residing at Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1.
According to the anti-graft agency, four suspects were arrested during the sting operation, while Udeke and another resident attempted to escape after discovering the presence of EFCC operatives.
“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,” the EFCC said. “Udeke did not survive the suicidal effort, in spite of medical interventions made to rescue him.”
The second resident, who also attempted to flee, survived the fall and has been stabilised after receiving medical treatment, the agency added.
EFCC clarified that its operatives had no physical contact with Udeke before his fatal fall, describing the incident as both “tragic and unnecessary.”
“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,” the EFCC stated.
The case has since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding Udeke’s death.
The EFCC urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate during its lawful operations, noting that all its raids are conducted with due process and professionalism.
This incident comes amid growing public scrutiny of EFCC’s operations following a series of controversial raids across the country in recent months.
In September, the Commission faced backlash after an early morning operation at a Lagos hotel led to the arrest of 11 people, including guests not linked to internet fraud.
Earlier this year, the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Ogun State accused the EFCC of conducting an unlawful raid on its facilities and demanded ₦3.5 billion in damages along with a public apology.
Despite mounting criticism, the EFCC insists that its anti-corruption and anti-cybercrime efforts remain essential in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against illicit financial activities.
While expressing sympathy to Udeke’s family, the Commission reiterated that its operations are lawful and citizens should not panic or attempt to evade arrest.
“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 operations,” the agency added.
The EFCC has vowed to continue its campaign against cybercrime and financial fraud while calling for greater public understanding and compliance during its operations.