Uniting Forces Against Cyber Crimes: Call for EFCC and NDLEA Collaboration by Tinubu’s Senior Special Assistant

Sunday Asefon Dayo, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Student Engagement, has advocated for a collaborative effort between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combat the rising issue of internet fraud among Nigerian youths.

In a statement released by EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale on Friday, Asefon Dayo made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the EFCC chairman, Ola Olukoyede, emphasizing the link between drug intake and the propulsion of internet crimes. He urged the two agencies to work together to address this growing menace.

Asefon Dayo highlighted, “Cybercrimes are escalating because youths engaged in them are influenced by drugs. I believe the EFCC and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, need to join forces and raise awareness against this menace.”

Expressing concern about the involvement of some lecturers and campus workers in these crimes, Asefon Dayo proposed the establishment of EFCC Clubs on every campus in Nigeria to educate students about the dangers of corruption.

While recommending the possibility of granting amnesty to internet fraudsters serving jail terms for their reform and reintegration into society, Asefon Dayo commended the EFCC’s new protocol on night operations, acknowledging the need to combat criminals operating under the cover of darkness.

In response, the EFCC’s chairman welcomed collaboration with interest groups, particularly student unions, in the fight against corruption and financial crimes. He clarified his concerns about the prevalence of internet crimes among youths, emphasizing the importance of youths succeeding through ethical means.