Olushola Omogbehin
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised concerns that the rising cases of internet fraudsters popularly known as ‘yahoo boys’ were reasons for visa restrictions for innocent Nigerians abroad.
The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said fraudulent practices do not only destroy the future of those taking part in it but also destroys Nigeria’s international integrity that has resulted into severe travel conditions for other good Nigerians.
Represented by the Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Coker Oyegunle, Olukoyede gave the warning at an event in Port Harcourt which was organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs.
His remarks which were contained in a statement released by the commission on Tuesday reads:
“Internet fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage cost Nigeria billions of naira annually, undermining national growth and depriving citizens of infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities. Beyond the economic damage, the crimes erode Nigeria’s international image and subject innocent Nigerians to stricter visa restrictions abroad.”
Appealing to young Nigerians on the danger of shortcuts through fraud, he urged them to channel their creativity into productive ventures to promote digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture and the creative industry.
“Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Easy come, easy go. Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ always end up losing their freedom, reputation, and future. The law is catching up with them and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t destroy your tomorrow with shortcuts today.”
He reestablished the commission’s readiness to intensify sensitisation, enforcement and collaboration with communities in order to cure cybercrime and related offences.
Also speaking at the event, the representative of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mathew Ewah, described drug abuse as a dangerous threats facing Nigerian youths.
The officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also warned against pipeline vandalism in the South-South region.
Recently, EFCC has stepped up its fight against cybercrime across the country. In August for instance, operatives of its Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 arrested 38 suspected internet fraudsters at Mambillah Hotel, Ikorodu, after some days of surveillance and recovered some items like vehicles, mobile phones, and substances suspected to be narcotics.
