The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has stepped up its efforts to tackle cybercrime and prevent individuals with questionable sources of wealth from gaining access to positions of power.
This was revealed by the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC for Niger and Kaduna States, Mr Bawa Usman Kaltungo, during a courtesy visit to the Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Minna, located in North Central Nigeria. Mr Kaltungo drew attention to the increased public concern following a series of arrests involving suspected internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys. He noted that their growing numbers have sparked considerable interest and debate across the country. While outlining some of the Commission’s key operations, he recalled a major bust last December in Lagos, during which 792 suspected cybercriminals were arrested in a single sweep. Another 105 suspects were apprehended in Abuja in January.
“These arrests, and others across the country, are part of our strategy to discourage Nigerians, especially the youth, from engaging in cyber-enabled financial crimes,” he said.
Beyond tackling internet-related fraud, the Zonal Director also mentioned that the Commission is actively addressing other forms of economic crimes, including illegal mining operations.
He underlined the necessity of continued efforts to stop individuals who profit from economic crimes from using such gains to seek public office, warning that this could threaten both national security and development.
In his response, the Chairman of the Niger State NUJ Council, Comrade Abu Nmodu, praised the EFCC’s visit as timely and urged for deeper cooperation between the Commission and the media.
Comrade Nmodu also assured the EFCC of the union’s support in achieving its objectives through ethical and responsible journalism.