EFCC Denies Viral Wanted Poster for Comedian Sabinus, Calls It Clout Chasing
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a firm response to a viral online poster that falsely claimed Nigerian skitmaker and content creator Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Ijekwu, popularly known as Sabinus, was declared wanted by the agency. The anti-graft commission swiftly dismissed the poster as fabricated and part of a clout-chasing scheme, urging the public to disregard the misinformation.
EFCC's Official Statements on Social Media
Taking to its official Twitter account, the EFCC directly addressed the situation with a clear warning. The agency posted, "Clout chaser, stop this now!" emphasizing its stance against the spread of false reports. On Instagram, the commission further cautioned netizens by stating, "Beware of fake news ❌," putting an end to the speculation that had sparked concern among fans and followers.
The viral poster, which circulated widely across social media platforms, suggested Sabinus was on the EFCC's wanted list, but the agency's prompt reaction clarified that no such declaration exists. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of combating misinformation in the digital age, particularly involving high-profile celebrities.
Background on Sabinus and Recent Rumors
This is not the first time Sabinus has been at the center of viral rumors. Recently, he addressed false claims about his marital status during a live stream session with Carter Efe. Sabinus clarified that he is not married, explaining that a past relationship ended amicably and that he maintains a good relationship with his child's mother, Ciana Chapman.
He stated, "I'm not married. For those carrying rumours, I am not married. My marriage ended peacefully. The mum and I are good. My daughter is okay, and she is doing fine." This came after earlier rumors in 2024 alleged marital issues, including accusations of domestic violence and financial neglect, which both Sabinus and Ciana later debunked.
Public Reactions to the EFCC Saga
The false wanted poster triggered a wave of reactions from netizens, with many expressing skepticism and humor. Comments ranged from calls to investigate other public figures to jokes about Sabinus's personal life. For instance, one user remarked on the need to focus on broader issues, while others teased about the comedian's relationship status, reflecting the mixed sentiments often seen in online discussions.
This incident underscores the rapid spread of fake news and its impact on public perception, especially when involving beloved entertainment figures. The EFCC's response serves as a reminder for the public to verify information before sharing it online.
Sabinus's Previous Encounters with Misinformation
Sabinus has previously dealt with false reports, including sharing a private conversation with a blogger who admitted to posting fake news about him. The blogger expressed admiration for Sabinus but revealed the pressures that lead to such actions. Sabinus expressed disappointment at the lengths some go to tarnish celebrities' images, highlighting the broader issue of ethical journalism in the digital era.
As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with misinformation, incidents like this emphasize the importance of credible sources and responsible social media use. The EFCC's clear denial has helped quell the rumors, but it also points to the need for ongoing vigilance against fake news campaigns.
