‘Teen Boys Died by Suicide’ – EFCC Extradites 2 Nigerians to US Over Instagram Sextortion

Two Nigerian men accused of sexually extorting American teenage boys on Instagram have been extradited to the United States to face prosecution, after investigations linked their activities to the deaths of two minors.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, handed over Mudashiru Afeez Olawale and Adebola Festus Adekunle to U.S. authorities.

The FBI had identified both men in separate sextortion schemes targeting boys between ages 13 and 17.

According to the Commission, the suspects allegedly used Child Sexual Abuse Material, CSAM, to blackmail victims for money through gift cards, money transfer services and cryptocurrency.

How The Scheme Worked

In one case, the FBI said a 13-year-old boy received a direct message on Instagram from a suspect requesting nude photos. After the minor complied, the suspect allegedly threatened to send the images to all his contacts unless he paid.

Advertisement

Investigators revealed that the threats continued even after the boy told the suspect he was considering suicide. The teen later died.

A similar pattern was found in another case involving an American minor who also died by suicide following online sexual extortion and threats.

The EFCC said the FBI requested Nigeria’s assistance to identify, arrest and prosecute the suspects.

Adekunle was arrested in Nigeria following EFCC investigations. For Olawale, the Commission filed extradition proceedings at the Federal High Court, Lagos in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/353/2024.

Although the court initially refused the request on June 10, 2024, the Attorney-General of the Federation appealed. On July 7, 2026, the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, in Appeal No. CA/LAG/CV/721/2024, overturned the decision and approved Olawale’s extradition.

Olawale is facing a seven-count charge in the U.S. including sexual exploitation of a minor resulting in death, enticement of a minor, interstate threatening communications, and distribution of child pornography.

Advertisement

The EFCC said the extradition highlights growing Nigeria-US cooperation in tackling transnational internet crimes, especially those involving minors.

“This case sends a clear message that Nigeria will not be a safe haven for cybercriminals who prey on children,” the Commission stated.

Authorities urged parents and guardians to monitor children’s online activities and report suspicious social media contacts to law enforcement.