Former EFCC chairman Ibrahim Lamorde dies in Egypt

The Nigerian anti-corruption community was thrown into mourning yesterday following the passing of former EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Lamorde, at the age of 61.

Lamorde passed away on Sunday morning in Egypt, where he was receiving medical treatment. Close associates confirmed his death, though the exact cause remains undisclosed.

A seasoned police officer born on December 20, 1962, in Mubi, Adamawa State, Lamorde joined the Nigerian Police Force in 1986. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming EFCC Chairman in 2011. Known for his tough stance on corruption, Lamorde led the prosecution of several high-profile cases and recovered billions in looted funds.

His notable achievements include the conviction of former Governor James Ibori and the recovery of $1 billion from the Abacha loot. He also spearheaded investigations into the Halliburton scandal and the fuel subsidy scam.

After his EFCC tenure ended in 2015, Lamorde continued his police career, retiring as a Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in 2021.

Tributes have poured in, praising Lamorde’s dedication to combating corruption and his significant contributions to Nigeria’s development. His death is seen as a tremendous loss to the anti-corruption community and the nation.