The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has vowed to intensify a broad-based and holistic anti-graft war that would not spare anyone linked with any form of economic and financial crimes in the country.

The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, made the declaration at an anti-corruption concert in Abuja on Monday, April 1, 2024.

The anti-corruption concert was organised to create awareness and public involvement in the fight against internet crimes.

Olukoyede, who reaffirmed his commitment to an all-embracing and fully integrated war against corrupt practices, said: “We will not spare anyone. We will not spare the mega thieves. As we are doing the mega, we will also do those at the lower end.

“In the last two months, we have arraigned two former governors. So, it is not true that we are only focused on internet fraudsters.

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“Of course, internet fraud is bad enough but our focus is on every form of economic and financial crimes.”

The EFCC boss further warned youths against indulging in internet-related offences, stressing that the consequences of being convicted for such crimes are grave.

He added: “Youths need to know that being ex-convicts has career limitations. Ex-convicts can’t run for public office, the stigma alone is even terrible.

“I urge you to avoid internet crimes by all means. Your future is more important than any immediate gains from such crimes.”

Olukoyede, according to a statement issued by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said the anti-graft agency under his watch is deeply interested in giving youths a glorious and sustainable future.

To this effect, he said, a Cyber Crime Research Centre was being planned at the EFCC Academy.

“The centre will involve youths in in-depth research about the issue of cybercrime. Their energies will be deployed toward profitable engagements,” the EFCC boss added.

Olukoyede, therefore, enjoined youths to embrace hard work and diligence, stressing that the path to success is hard work and dignity.

“There is dignity in labour. Let’s come together. All of us must come together and agree that corruption is evil. Don’t leave the fight to EFCC alone,” he said.

The Star