Ibrahim Lamorde, former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has passed away at the age of 61.
Lamorde reportedly died in Egypt, where he was undergoing medical treatment.
In a statement confirming Lamorde’s death, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale described it as sudden and shocking. He highlighted Lamorde’s dedication to the nation as a focused and gallant anti-graft fighter.
“He will be sorely missed both at the EFCC and by the nation at large. The Commission prays for the repose of his soul and offers comfort to his family, the EFCC, and the entire nation,” the statement added.
Lamorde served as the EFCC chairman from 2012 to 2015. He was appointed in an acting capacity by President Goodluck Jonathan on November 23, 2011, following the removal of Farida Waziri. The Senate confirmed him as the third substantive chairman of the commission on February 15, 2012.
READ ALSO: EFCC Returns $22,000 to US Victim of Cybercrime in Landmark Collaboration with FBI
Born on December 20, 1962, in Mubi, Adamawa State, Lamorde attended Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology in 1984. He joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1986 and became the pioneer director of operations when the EFCC was established in 2003.
Lamorde first served as acting chairman in January 2008 before Farida Waziri was appointed and confirmed by the Senate in June 2008. Upon his return to the EFCC in 2010, Lamorde replaced Stephen Otitoju as director of operations.
On November 23, 2011, while serving as an assistant commissioner of police (ACP), Lamorde was appointed acting chairman once more. He held the position of chairman until November 9, 2015, when former President Muhammadu Buhari replaced him with Ibrahim Magu.
