The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has warned young people in the South-South region to stay away from internet fraud and other financial crimes. He described fraud as a dangerous trap that destroys lives and the future of those who engage in it.
Olukoyede gave this advice in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Monday, September 15, 2025, during an event organized by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA).
Speaking on the theme “Uniting South-South Youths in the Fight Against Cultism, Pipeline Vandalism, Internet Fraud, Money Laundering, Drug Abuse, Human Trafficking and Economic Sabotage,” Olukoyede, represented by Chief Superintendent of EFCC, CSE Coker Oyegunle, stressed that fraud may look like “easy money,” but it ends in disgrace, jail time, and lost opportunities.
According to him: “Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Many who follow ‘yahoo-yahoo’ lose their freedom, reputation, and future. The law is catching up with them, and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t ruin your tomorrow with shortcuts today.”
He explained that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic crimes cost Nigeria billions of naira every year. These crimes not only slow down national development but also deny citizens basic infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities. Beyond that, they damage Nigeria’s image abroad and make innocent Nigerians face strict visa restrictions in foreign countries.
Olukoyede encouraged young people to channel their energy into positive ventures like digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry. He said these areas provide lasting opportunities without the risks of crime.
“Youths are the strength of our nation. Choosing fraud means destroying your tomorrow. But choosing creativity, honesty, and innovation means building a Nigeria that can compete with the best in the world,” he said.
The EFCC boss also assured that the Commission will continue sensitization campaigns, strict enforcement, and partnerships with communities to fight against fraud and other related crimes. He called on youths and stakeholders to work together in building a Nigeria known for integrity and prosperity.
