EFCC’s Unprecedented Gains: 3,175 Convictions and N156 Billion Recovered Under Tinubu Administration
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
In a remarkable display of anti-corruption prowess, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced a staggering 3,175 convictions and recovered over N156 billion in the first year of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure.
The announcement was made by the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, during the launch of the Zero Tolerance Club at the University of Abuja, Gwagwalada.
Speaking through the Commission’s Secretary, Mohammed Hammajoda, Olukoyede detailed the financial recoveries, which included $43.8 million, £25,365, €186,947, ₹51,360, C$3,750, A$740, ¥74,754, R35,000, 42,390 UAE Dirhams, 247 Riyals, and 21,580 units of various cryptocurrencies.
Despite these impressive results, Olukoyede expressed grave concerns over the rising involvement of youths in cybercrime, commonly known as “yahoo yahoo.”
He urged students to steer clear of internet fraud, emphasising that a fraud conviction could have lifelong detrimental effects on their futures.
“In spite of this commendable performance, the Commission is deeply worried about the increasing involvement of young people, including students, in cybercrime. Hundreds of suspects are arrested monthly, with many of them ending up in jail,” Olukoyede said.
He called on students to channel their creativity into positive endeavours rather than illicit activities, debunking the myth that fraud equates to intelligence or ingenuity.
The event also featured a speech by the Director of Public Affairs of the EFCC, DCE Wilson Uwujaren, who highlighted the importance of youth involvement in the fight against corruption.
“The blessings that God has given Nigeria have not translated into wealth for all. This is why the EFCC is here today to launch the Zero Tolerance Club and mobilise youths against corruption,” Uwujaren stated.
The University of Abuja Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, urged students to be productive and uphold the integrity of their families and communities.
He praised the EFCC’s efforts and the establishment of the Zero Tolerance Club at the university.
In a presentation on the detriments of cybercrime, ACE II David Ife encouraged youths to use their talents for productive purposes.
Also speaking, ACE II Aisha Mohammed, head of the Commission’s Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit, emphasised the goal of the club to nurture future leaders committed to anti-corruption values.
The launch concluded with the presentation of EFCC manuals, magazines, and signage to the university, symbolising the beginning of a collaborative effort to combat corruption at the grassroots level.
EFCC’s Unprecedented Gains: 3,175 Convictions and N156 Billion Recovered Under Tinubu Administration