The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has addressed reports misinterpreting remarks made by its Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, regarding the involvement of Nigerian university students in cybercrimes.Contrary to circulating claims, the EFCC emphasized that Olukoyede’s comments were misunderstood.
According to the agency’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, the chairman’s concerns centered on the rising trend of internet-related crimes among youths.In a statement released, Oyewale clarified that Olukoyede’s remarks highlighted the need for increased media awareness among youths to combat the surge in cyber fraud.
He reiterated that the chairman did not categorize “seven out of 10” Nigerian students as criminals but rather expressed worry about the potential future ramifications if the prevalence of cybercrimes among youths remains unchecked.
Part of the statement reads, “He did say that reports and intelligence available to him indicated that, unless this trajectory of youth involvement in internet fraud is addressed and reversed, the future of their leadership of our great nation may be threatened and if it continues in the next 10 years, 7 out 10 of our youths may be getting involved in cybercrimes. At no time did he say that “seven out of 10″ Nigerian students are criminals”.
His concerns still bother on breaking the jinx of mass indulgence of youths in cybercrimes”.
