The Anambra State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has dismissed reports suggesting that a medical doctor was involved in the fatal shooting of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operative.
In a statement signed by the State Secretary, Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the association clarified that the individual in question, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, is neither a medical doctor nor a member of the NMA.
“Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that a medical doctor was responsible for the death of an EFCC officer in Awka,” the statement read.
“The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 17, 2025, at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka.
“Media outlets have erroneously linked the suspect to the medical profession, claiming he is a staff member of NAUTH.”
However, the NMA refuted these claims, stating, “Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu is not affiliated with NAUTH, as confirmed by its management.
“Additionally, he is not a registered member of the Awka zone of the NMA, and no one recognizes him as a medical doctor or colleague.”
The association explained that while the suspect deals in medical supplies and has been addressed as “Doctor,” he is neither a certified medical practitioner nor an academic doctor.
They described his claims as an attempt to tarnish the image of the medical profession.
The NMA called on media organizations and the EFCC to stop referring to the suspect as a medical doctor.
“We demand an immediate retraction of all defamatory publications labelling the suspect as a doctor. The media must verify such claims before publication,” the statement added.
The NMA extended its condolences to the EFCC and the family of the deceased officer while reaffirming the integrity and law-abiding nature of Nigerian medical practitioners.
Earlier reports revealed that the EFCC operative, Assistant Superintendent Halisu Sahabi, was killed during a raid in Awka by a suspected internet fraudster.
The suspect was apprehended on Saturday after being discovered hiding in a neighbour’s ceiling. Halisu’s remains have since been transported to Sokoto State for burial.
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