The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of one of its suspects, Asar Michael Sesugh, following reports and public concerns over the incident.
In a statement issued by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity, on June 6, 2026, the Commission explained that Sesugh did not die in EFCC custody and was not on bail at any point before his death.
According to the Commission, operatives of its Makurdi Zonal Directorate arrested 26 suspected cyber fraudsters on April 28, 2026. The suspects were profiled and detained for further investigation after a Magistrate Court granted a remand order.
The EFCC disclosed that on May 4, 2026, three of the suspects requested permission to use the lavatory within the Directorate's holding facility. While there, they allegedly took advantage of the opportunity to break through the toilet roof and escape from detention.
The Commission stated that several efforts to re arrest the fleeing suspects proved unsuccessful until fresh intelligence received on May 21, 2026, indicated that one of the escapees, Asar Michael Sesugh, was hiding in the Kansho area of Makurdi.
Acting on the intelligence, EFCC operatives moved to the location. However, upon sighting the team, Sesugh and some suspected cult members allegedly opened fire on the operatives.
The Commission said its operatives responded in self-defence, leading to an exchange of gunfire. During the confrontation,
the suspects reportedly fled the scene. Sesugh was later found lying by the roadside with gunshot injuries and was immediately rushed to the Police Cottage Hospital at the Police Headquarters in Makurdi, where he was confirmed dead.
The EFCC further revealed that the matter was promptly reported to the Benue State Police Command, which has commenced an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the suspect's death.
The Police are also pursuing other fleeing members of the suspected cult group.
The Commission emphasized that preliminary findings by the Police have already been made public and reiterated that Sesugh neither died in custody nor enjoyed bail privileges before the incident.
While extending condolences to the family of the deceased, the EFCC maintained that it would not tolerate attacks on its operatives or any breach of its internal security arrangements.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out its mandate in the best interest of the nation
