The Commander of Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), Kanu Idagu, has advised youths to desist from cybercrime, saying that it could lead to ruination of their lives.
Idagu gave the charge on Thursday, while delivering a lecture on Information and Communication Technology and Social Order at the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, as part of efforts to engage the students in the campaign against cyber crime.
The commander, who was represented by the Head of Economic Governance of the Command, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, David Nkpe, defined cybercrime as any form of illegal act perpetrated by using the internet and other electronic means to obtain money from unsuspecting victims.
He advised the youths to focus on self-development and redirect their energy into positive activities that would benefit them and the society.
“It is better to start humble and grow steadily than spend time in jail. Be contented, work hard and you will definitely get to the top,” he said.
According to him, the EFCC was exploring all avenues to dissuade Nigerians from embracing corrupt practices, in order not to dent the country’s reputation.
Idagu stated further that the Commission was ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to find ways of encouraging the students to use their youthful energies in a positive manner, adding that there were enormous opportunities through the internet.
He said that the youths should realise that cyber crime had effects which could destroy their future, expressing dismay that some families openly encouraged the criminal activities of their children because of the benefits they would derive from such activities and would justify it with the high rate of unemployment and poverty in Nigeria.
He assured that the EFCC remained steadfast in its determination to reduce cyber crime to the barest minimum.
The Head of Department, Prof. E. Nwokocha thanked the EFCC for considering the invitation and bringing the practical lessons to bear in the students’ experience.
“This will no doubt serve as warning shots and equip the students to steer clear of these crimes and serve as vanguard for social order,” he stated.
