The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has expressed deep concern over the growing involvement of Nigerian youths in internet fraud, popularly known as Yahoo Yahoo, warning that the trend is scaring away investors and damaging the country’s reputation.
Speaking at an event organised by the Delta State Government at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, on Monday, the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Benin Zonal Command, Assistant Commander Effa I. Okim, said the activities of cybercriminals are painting Nigeria in a bad light across the globe.
Okim said the consequences of cybercrime go beyond individual criminal records and now threaten the economic future of the country.
“The menace of internet fraud among our youth is pervasive and it is a stain on us as a people and as a nation. They have embraced this crime to the detriment of their future and the image of the nation,” Okim said.
He warned that many foreign investors are losing confidence in doing business in Nigeria because of the rising cases of cyber fraud, which in turn affects job creation, innovation, and national development.
“Such acts make investors lose trust in the economy, discourage industrial growth, destroy creativity among the youth, and put Nigeria’s future at risk,” he stated.
The EFCC director also used the platform to call on Nigerian youths to embrace hard work and shun internet fraud and other forms of criminality.
“Youths should embrace hard work and shun internet fraud and other forms of criminalities as the Commission is determined to deal with those who cross the line,” Okim added.
