EFCC Clarifies Chairman’s Statement on Nigerian Students and Cybercrime

Recent media reports suggesting that the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, stated that “7 out of 10 Nigerian students are criminals” have been refuted by the anti-graft agency.

The reports, stemming from a meeting between Olukoyede and representatives of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), have prompted the EFCC to issue a statement to correct the narrative.

In the statement, EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, clarified that Olukoyede’s focus was on breaking the pattern of widespread involvement of youths in cybercrime, rather than labelling students as criminals.

Oyewale emphasized Olukoyede’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youths and finding alternative solutions to combat cybercrime.

Contrary to the media portrayal, Olukoyede believes in a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders to address the issue of cybercrime and guide young people towards more productive and sustainable alternatives.

The EFCC asserts that the Chairman’s remarks were misinterpreted, and he did not categorize 7 out of 10 Nigerian students as criminals.

During a meeting with representatives of Civil Society Organisations, Olukoyede highlighted the need for increased media enlightenment to counteract the prevalence of internet-related crimes among the youth.

Reports and intelligence available to him suggested that without intervention, the future leadership of the nation could be jeopardized by the rising trend of youth involvement in cyber fraud.

The EFCC’s statement seeks to assure the public of Olukoyede’s unwavering commitment to the progress of Nigerian youths.

Source: PM News