“EFCC Boss Defends Crackdown on Internet Fraudsters, Warns of Growing Danger”
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has defended the commission’s ongoing efforts to combat internet fraudsters, known as Yahoo Yahoo boys, despite facing criticism.Olukoyede highlighted the growing severity of internet fraud and its broader criminal implications.
He pointed out that Nigeria had lost over $500 million in just one year due to internet fraud, with fraudsters now engaging in far more dangerous activities beyond online scams. According to Olukoyede, these criminals are increasingly involved in serious crimes such as kidnapping, ritual killings, and arms trafficking, posing a threat to national security.
“We are doing the work,” Olukoyede said. “Last year alone, we received over 11,000 petitions, investigated close to 9,000, and prosecuted nearly 5,000 cases, despite our limited resources. Some criticize us for going after Yahoo Yahoo boys, but they don’t grasp the severity of this crime. It’s not just about scamming anymore. They are involved in kidnapping, banditry, and ritual killings. Some investigations have revealed horrifying details, including young female victims being used for rituals. If we don’t act now, in the next 10 years, we may not have a generation we can confidently hand over this country to.”
The EFCC boss also emphasized the importance of integrity within the commission, stating that he had fired 27 staff members last year due to corruption allegations. Olukoyede underscored the need for law enforcement to lead by example in the fight against corruption.
“You cannot fight corruption and be corrupt yourself,” he stated. “I have publicly challenged anyone to provide evidence that I have collected bribes during my years of service. Integrity is essential in this fight, and we must lead by example.”
Furthermore, Olukoyede called for greater collaboration with the media to shape public perception of the EFCC’s work. He urged investigative journalism that highlights both corruption and the commission’s achievements in the fight against financial crimes.
“The media has always been a crucial player in the anti-corruption movement. Before the EFCC was established in the early 2000s, it was journalists who exposed many financial crimes,” Olukoyede said. “We need to return to that era where the media and law enforcement worked together to protect the country.”
The Chief of Staff to the EFCC Chairman, Michael Nzekwe, echoed Olukoyede’s sentiments, praising the media for its role in public sensitization and advocacy. He called for increased collaboration and understanding in the reporting of the EFCC’s work.
“The media is a critical partner in this fight. The advocacy and awareness you create have helped sustain the anti-corruption movement in Nigeria. We ask for even more understanding in the way our work is reported,” Nzekwe said. “The fight against corruption is for the good of all Nigerians, not just the EFCC.”
