The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has voluntarily handed over two of it’s Officials to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for investigation and possible dismissal for fighting over items belonging to a suspect in detention.
EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa made this disclosure at a press conference, Tuesday in Abuja.
According to Bawa, the officer passed away on May 7, 2023, at the Usmanu Dan Fodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto where he was receiving treatment for injuries he sustained, two days earlier, in a scuffle with two other staff: Assistant Superintendent of EFCC, Apata Oluwaseun Odunayo and Inspector of EFCC, Ogbuji Titu Tochukwu.
The EFCC boss who spoke through the Spokesperson of the anti-graft agency, Wilson Uwujaren said the two officials are likely to face dismissal if found wanting in line with the act establishing the EFCC.
Bawa said: “Without prejudice to the Police investigation, they will in addition, face further disciplinary measures in line with the Commission’s staff regulation.
“The latest information, is that a two count holding charge bordering on criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide has been filed against them at a Chief Magistrate Court, Gwiwa in Sokoto. Both offences are punishable under Sections 60 and 191 of the Sokoto State Penal Code Law, 2019.
“We have invited you this morning to brief you about an unfortunate incident that happened at our Sokoto Zonal Command, which is suspected to have led to the death of one of our young officers, Inspector of the EFCC, Abel Isah Dickson.
“They had disagreed over procedures for the custody of items belonging to a suspect in detention, leading to a fight, a conduct which the Commission frowns at.
“The two officers with whom he had a disagreement have been suspended by the Commission and handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“I am saddened by the incident, and has extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. He has, in addition, assured that the Commission will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that those implicated in the death of the officer are brought to justice.”
Bawa warned staff of the Commission to ensure that their conduct at all times is moderated by the established code of behaviour as no act of indiscipline would be tolerated.
Meanwhile, the remains of the late officer were interred on Saturday May 13, 2023 in Jos, Plateau State.