The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has sought to clarify recent media reports suggesting its chairman, Ola Olukoyede, stated that “seven out of 10 Nigerian students are criminals.”
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale issued a statement on December 7th, 2023, asserting that Olukoyede’s words were misconstrued by certain media outlets.
Oyewale clarified that during a meeting with Civil Society Organizations, Olukoyede highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive media campaigns to address the escalating issue of internet fraud among Nigerian youth.
He further explained, “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 ten years, seven out 10 of our youths may be getting involved in cybercrimes,” he said
Oyewale emphasized that Olukoyede never explicitly stated that “seven out of 10 Nigerian students are criminals.”
He reiterated Olukoyede’s primary focus: breaking the cycle of widespread youth involvement in cybercrime.
The EFCC spokesperson assured the public that Olukoyede remains dedicated to the development and success of Nigerian youth.
He stressed that Olukoyede’s call for coordinated efforts aims to offer more engaging and sustainable alternatives that will deter young people from engaging in cybercrime.
