Sextortion: FBI Hails EFCC Over Extradition of Two Nigerians to US
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has praised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its assistance in the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects facing federal charges in the United States over alleged sexual exploitation and extortion of minors.
The FBI also commended EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede for his leadership and the Commission’s support for Operation Artemis, an international initiative targeting financially motivated sextortion networks that prey on children.
FBI Director Kash Patel conveyed the commendation in a letter to Olukoyede, acknowledging the EFCC’s contribution to investigations and the extradition process.
Patel said the Commission had played a vital role in the joint operation by assigning personnel to support investigations and facilitating the transfer of suspects from Nigeria to the United States for prosecution.
The suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudashiru Afeez Olawale, were indicted in the United States in 2023 over allegations connected to the sexual exploitation and extortion of minors.
They were extradited to the United States in August 2026 following investigations and extradition proceedings facilitated by the EFCC.
The FBI director noted that the cases involved federal charges relating to sexual exploitation associated with the deaths of minors.
He emphasised that the progress recorded would not have been possible without the EFCC’s assistance and commitment to cross-border law enforcement cooperation.
“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” Patel said in the letter.
He further thanked Olukoyede and the Commission for their commitment to justice and sustained cooperation, expressing confidence in the continuation of the partnership between both agencies.
“Please accept my sincere appreciation for your commitment to justice and steadfast cooperation. I look forward to the continued partnership with the EFCC,” he added.
The cases stemmed from FBI investigations into separate sextortion schemes targeting male minors in the United States.
According to the investigations, two teenage victims died by suicide after allegedly being subjected to online sexual exploitation and extortion.
The EFCC’s role in the operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in investigating cybercrime, protecting vulnerable victims and pursuing suspects across national borders.
