Ola Olukoyede, chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), says internet fraud is making countries subject “innocent” Nigerians to “stricter” visa restrictions.
Olukoyede spoke on Monday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, in an event organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA).
The event was themed: ‘Uniting South-South Youths in the Fight Against Cultism, Pipeline Vandalism, Internet Fraud, Money Laundering, Drug Abuse, Human Trafficking and Economic Sabotage’.
The EFCC chairman was represented at the event by Coker Oyegunle, head of advance fee fraud section, Port Harcourt zonal directorate of the agency.
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He was quoted in a statement warning youths to shun internet fraud, popularly known as Yahoo Yahoo, and other financial crimes.
The EFCC boss said many who toe the path of internet fraud “always end up losing their freedom, reputation, and future”.
Olukoyede warned youths against using the gains of today to destroy their future, adding that engaging in fraud is not a successful venture.
He added that the youths can build the country through their creativity and innovation instead of venturing into criminal activities.
“The EFCC boss highlighted that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage cost Nigeria billions of naira annually, undermining national growth and depriving citizens of infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities,” the statement reads.
“Beyond the economic damage, he pointed out that the crimes erode Nigeria’s international image and subject innocent Nigerians to stricter visa restrictions abroad.
“The EFCC boss urged the youth to channel their talents into productive ventures such as digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and creative industries, all of which offer sustainable opportunities without the risks of crime.”
Also speaking, Mathew Ewah, assistant commander-general at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), warned youths against drug abuse.
“Drug abuse is a social problem. Sadly, youths are the majority abusing drugs in Nigeria, and this is worrisome,” he said.
“It turns many into social misfits, affecting their families, communities, and ultimately the country.”
