BY ADMIN
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, has raised concerns that the increasing prevalence of internet fraud is leading to stricter visa restrictions for law-abiding Nigerians traveling abroad. EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, emphasized that this menace not only ruins the future of perpetrators but also tarnishes Nigeria’s reputation.
Olukoyede noted that crimes like cyber fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage drain Nigeria of billions of naira annually, hindering development and denying citizens access to essential services and opportunities. He stressed that internet fraud erodes Nigeria’s international image, subjecting innocent citizens to stricter travel conditions.
The EFCC Chairman urged Nigerian youths to channel their creativity into productive ventures like digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry. He warned that fraud is a trap, not a pathway to success, and that the law will catch up with perpetrators.
Olukoyede reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to sensitization, enforcement, and community collaboration in combating fraud. The commission has intensified its efforts, including recent arrests and seizures of suspected internet fraudsters.
Other agencies represented at the event highlighted pressing issues, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s NDLEA warning on drug abuse and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps’ NSCDC alert on pipeline vandalism.
The EFCC’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing internet fraud and promoting a culture of integrity and responsibility among Nigerian youths.