‘Cybercrime Tarnishing Nigeria’s Image Abroad’ – EFCC Blames Yahoo Boys for Visa Restrictions
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised concerns that the increasing incidence of internet fraud is exacerbating visa restrictions for innocent Nigerians traveling abroad.
The Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, stated that online fraud not only endangers the future of those directly involved but also harms Nigeria’s global reputation. This results in stricter travel conditions for law-abiding citizens.
Olukoyede, with Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle from the EFCC as his representative, delivered remarks on Monday during an event organized by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the commission stressed the pressing importance for Nigerian youths to reject cybercrime and engage in honest, productive activities that support national development.
The head of the EFCC emphasized that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage drain Nigeria of billions of naira each year. This undermines national development by depriving citizens of essential infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities.
In addition to the economic harm, he noted that these crimes tarnish Nigeria’s international reputation and lead to stricter visa requirements for innocent Nigerians traveling overseas, according to the statement.
He encouraged young individuals in the South-South region and throughout the nation to direct their energy towards productive activities like digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry.
He reportedly stated, “Fraud does not equate to success; it is merely a trap. What comes easily can also vanish quickly. Those who engage in ‘yahoo-yahoo’ often find themselves losing their freedom, reputation, and future. The law eventually catches up with them, as digital footprints are permanent. Avoid compromising your future by taking shortcuts today.”
That’s not total true as Politicians are involved not just only yahoo boys. Vision less politicians are responsible