How Yahoo boys are making visa access tougher for Nigerians — EFCC

By Adetayo Omotoyosi Adeolu

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has attributed the visa restrictions on Nigerians abroad to the prevalent internet fraud in Nigeria.

The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, warned that internet fraud not only destroys the future of the perpetrators but also tarnishes the country’s image. He noted that the situation is forcing other countries to impose sweeping travel conditions on law-abiding citizens.

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He said the development is forcing other nations to impose tougher travel conditions on law-abiding citizens.

Olukoyede, represented by Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Coker Oyegunle, spoke at an event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs.

In a statement issued by the commission about the event, he warned the country about the long-term consequences of internet fraud.

The anti-graft agency added that internet fraud, money laundering and economic sabotage cost Nigeria billions of naira annually, stifle national growth and rob citizens of jobs, infrastructure and opportunities. “Beyond the economic damage, the crimes erode Nigeria’s image and subject innocent Nigerians to harsher visa restrictions abroad,” the statement read.

The EFCC boss urged Nigerian youths to redirect their energy into innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture and the creative industry rather than waste it on cybercrime. “Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Easy come, easy go. Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ end up losing their freedom, reputation and future. The law is catching up with them and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t destroy your tomorrow with shortcuts today.”

Olukoyede also restated the EFCC’s commitment to intensifying sensitisation, enforcement and collaboration with communities in tackling cybercrime.