The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared that internet fraudsters, commonly called Yahoo Boys, are now causing more damage to Nigeria’s economy than any other criminal group.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale described the fight against cybercrime as “a broad-based fight” needing everyone’s involvement.
He warned that these fraudsters are actively destabilizing the economy and blocking national progress.
“The present reality today in this country is that the internet fraudsters, or so-called Yahoo Boys, are wrecking more terrible havoc on Nigeria’s economy than any other sets of people,” Oyewale stated.
The statement sparked massive backlash online, with citizens questioning whether the EFCC is focusing on the right targets.
Many argued that politicians and government officials involved in large-scale corruption remain untouched while young fraudsters face the full weight of the law.
Here’s what Nigerians are saying on X:
@Victorcrown17: “Create jobs, fix education, pay lecturers, stop police extortion, provide electricity.
Then come and tell us why a 24-year-old with first class should not do Yahoo when his papa politician thief pass. Until then, this fight na selective justice.”
@SXwire: “Havoc keh? And the terrorists are doing what??”
@damiskid135: “EFCC is only after Yahoo Boys… They see corrupt politicians as legends…”
@deepinsight_NG: “If these guys invest half the energy they use to chase Yahoo Boys into fighting corruption in the public sector, Nigeria would be a better place.”
