The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has stated that internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo Boys, pose a greater danger to Nigeria’s economy than any other group. The clarification was made by the agency’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale.
EFCC: Battle Against Corruption Requires Collective Effort
Oyewale emphasized that the “Anti-corruption fight, is a broad based fight” and requires the involvement of every stakeholder, noting that cybercriminal activities continue to destabilize the nation’s economy and hinder progress.
According to him, “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.”
Nigerians React on Social Media
The comments quickly ignited intense discussions online, with many Nigerians criticizing the focus on Yahoo Boys while high-profile corruption remains largely unchecked.
@Victorcrown17 wrote: “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 him papa politician thief pass. Until then this fight na selective justice.”
@SXwire questioned: “Havoc keh and the terrorist is doing what??”
@damiskid135 added: “EFCC is only after Yahoo Boys… They see corrupt politicians as legends…”
@deepinsight_NG commented: “If these guys invest half of the energy they are using to chase Yahoo Boys into fighting corruption in the public sector, Nigeria would be a better place.”
Public Demand for Broader Anti-Corruption Action
While EFCC insists cybercrime is a major economic threat, many citizens continue to demand tougher measures against entrenched corruption in public offices, arguing that both problems deserve equal attention.