ActionAid Nigeria has issued a sweeping and uncompromising condemnation of a controversial claim attributed to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, alleging that six in ten Nigerian students are involved in cybercrime, describing the assertion as reckless, unsubstantiated, and dangerous.
In a statement released on May 1 in Abuja, the civil society organisation warned that the claim—reportedly made without verifiable evidence, credible data, or transparent methodology—amounts to a sweeping generalisation that unfairly criminalises millions of law-abiding Nigerian youths and undermines their dignity, image, and future prospects.
The group said it is unacceptable for a public official of such standing to make a claim of that magnitude without presenting empirical backing. It described the statement as misleading and potentially harmful, particularly in a country already grappling with deep socio-economic challenges.
The Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, demanded that the EFCC immediately make public the survey and methodology used to arrive at the controversial figure, including details of any institutions that validated the claim. He insisted that if such evidence cannot be produced, the EFCC Chairman must retract the statement and issue a public apology to Nigerian youths for the harm caused.
The organisation further warned that such narratives risk being amplified globally, reinforcing negative stereotypes about Nigerian youths and damaging the country’s already fragile international reputation.
While acknowledging that cybercrime exists and that some individuals are involved, ActionAid stressed that youth delinquency is a global phenomenon and not unique to Nigeria.
ActionAid Nigeria reiterated that it does not condone crime in any form but firmly rejects attempts to stigmatise an entire generation based on unverified claims. It pledged solidarity with young Nigerians across the country and encouraged them to continue advocating for accountability, fairness, and inclusive development.
The organisation said it remains committed to working with people living in poverty and exclusion to advance social justice, gender equality, and sustainable development, with the ultimate goal of building a society where every individual can live with dignity, free from poverty and all forms of oppression.
Michael Olugbode
