NANS faults EFCC boss over comment on fraudulent practices by students

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EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede

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By Adesina Wahab

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The National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS), has decried the comment by the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, that nearly 60 percent of students in tertiary institutions are engaged in fraudulent practices.

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In a statement by the National Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, on Wednesday, the association said such generalisation was uncalled for.

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“The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, the apex body representing the collective interests of Nigerian students at home and in the Diaspaora, expresses deep concern and strong disapproval over the recent statement credited to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, alleging that six out of every ten Nigerian students are involved in cybercrime.

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“This sweeping assertion is not only unsubstantiated in its public presentation but also grossly insensitive, damaging, and unbecoming of a public office holder entrusted with national responsibility. Such a generalized claim unfairly criminalizes the overwhelming majority of hardworking, law-abiding Nigerian students who are striving daily to make meaningful contributions to national development.

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“While NANS does not deny the existence of cybercrime as a societal challenge, we firmly reject any attempt to label Nigerian students broadly as perpetrators. Statements of this nature risk creating harmful stereotypes that could have far-reaching consequences, including the stigmatization of Nigerian students in the international community particularly in accessing global opportunities such as scholarships, grants, and academic collaborations.

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“We are compelled to ask: does this assertion imply that cybercrime has become more prevalent than in previous years under the watch of the EFCC and other relevant government agencies? Or does it suggest that the numerous interventions, campaigns, and enforcement strategies deployed over time have failed to yield measurable results? These are critical questions that must be addressed with clarity, data transparency, and accountability not broad generalizations.

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“Public officials must exercise caution, responsibility, and precision in communicating sensitive issues that affect the image and future of Nigerian youths. Reckless statements especially those lacking adequate context only serve to undermine confidence in public institutions and demoralize young Nigerians who are working hard to build a better future.

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In light of the above, NANS hereby calls on the EFCC Chairman to: Provide verifiable data and proper context to substantiate the claim; or “Issue a public clarification to accurately reflect the intent and scope of the statement; or “Retract the statement entirely in the interest of fairness, national image, and youth development.

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“NANS remains committed to partnering with government agencies, including the EFCC, in promoting ethical conduct, digital responsibility, and youth empowerment. However, such partnerships must be built on mutual respect, accurate representation, and constructive engagement not damaging generalizations.
“Nigerian students are not criminals. They are innovators, scholars, leaders, and the backbone of our nation’s future.”

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