How suspect died jumping from four-storey building to escape arrest in Lagos – EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified the events leading to the death of Endurance Udeke, a resident of Periwinkle Estate, Lekki Phase 1, during a sting operation on Tuesday, November 4.

In a statement on Saturday, EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, described the incident as “unfortunate,” attributing it to what he termed the “suicidal action” of Udeke.

“The Commission feels obliged to clear the air on the circumstances leading to the passing of citizen Endurance Udeke,” Oyewale said.

The EFCC said operatives were conducting a routine operation to arrest suspected internet fraudsters. The raid reportedly proceeded smoothly, with four suspects apprehended, until Udeke and another resident attempted to evade arrest.

“Udeke and one other resident of apartment W6a tried to escape arrest by jumping from the four-storey building,” the statement said. Udeke did not survive despite medical interventions, while the second resident was treated and stabilized at a hospital.

EFCC officials contacted Udeke’s family to explain the events and the efforts made to save his life. Oyewale stressed that 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 and the deceased before the unfortunate incident,” he said.

The EFCC has reported the case to the Nigeria Police Force, which has launched an investigation. Oyewale also urged the public not to panic during EFCC operations, noting that only those with criminal concerns have reason to fear such raids.

The incident has reignited calls for an impartial investigation to fully establish the circumstances surrounding Udeke’s death.