Bashir Ahmad, the former Special Assistant on Digital Communication to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has publicly criticized Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for his silence regarding the killing of an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operative, Halisu Sahabi.
In a post on his verified X account on Tuesday, Ahmad expressed disappointment that Obi, a prominent political figure from Anambra State where the incident occurred, had not extended condolences to the EFCC or the family of the late operative.
“I expected Peter Obi to surprise us by extending his condolences to the EFCC and the family of Aminu Sahabi, who was brutally murdered while carrying out his official duties,” Ahmad wrote.
“I had assumed he would have strongly condemned the brutal killing, especially since the incident occurred in his state, Anambra.”
Sahabi, an Assistant Superintendent with the EFCC, was fatally shot during a raid in Awka, Anambra State's capital.
The suspect, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, allegedly opened fire on Sahabi and his colleagues as they attempted to arrest a group of suspected cybercriminals.
The tragic incident, which occurred last Friday, has drawn widespread condemnation and calls for justice. Ahmad’s remarks have further ignited debate over the responsibility of public figures in addressing such tragedies, particularly within their regions of influence.
Peter Obi has yet to respond to the criticism or issue a statement on the matter. Meanwhile, the EFCC has vowed to pursue justice for Sahabi’s killing as investigations continue.