In a shocking revelation, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede has warned that Nigeria’s infamous internet fraudsters have graduated from online scams to more sinister crimes, including kidnapping and ritual murders. The disturbing disclosure came during a high-level meeting with Punch management at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
“What we’re dealing with isn’t just your typical internet fraud anymore,” Olukoyede said, painting a grim picture of how these criminals have evolved.
“These Yahoo boys have ventured into kidnapping, banditry, and even ritual killings.”
The EFCC boss revealed that cybercrime alone cost Nigeria a staggering $500 million last year. Despite facing criticism for targeting internet fraudsters, Olukoyede defended the commission’s approach, citing disturbing findings from recent investigations.
“We’ve uncovered horrifying cases, including young women being used for rituals,” he said, his voice carrying a note of urgency.
“If we don’t act now, we might not have a worthy generation to hand this country over to in the next decade.”
The numbers tell their own story: over 11,000 petitions received, nearly 9,000 investigations conducted, and about 5,000 cases prosecuted in the past year alone. But perhaps more telling is Olukoyede’s commitment to cleaning house – he revealed that 27 EFCC staff members were dismissed over corruption allegations during the same period.
“I’ve publicly challenged anyone to come forward with evidence that I’ve ever taken a bribe,” he stated firmly. “You can’t be fighting corruption while being corrupt yourself.”
Looking to strengthen the fight against financial crime, Olukoyede called for a return to the investigative journalism of the early 2000s.
“Before the EFCC existed, it was journalists who exposed many financial crimes. We need to revive that spirit of collaboration.”
Michael Nzekwe, the EFCC Chairman’s Chief of Staff, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the media’s crucial role in public awareness.
“This isn’t just about the EFCC – it’s about protecting Nigeria’s future,” he said, calling for more nuanced reporting of the commission’s work.
