Edo Ranks Second In Cybercrime After Lagos

The Benin Zonal Director of the EFCC covering Edo, Delta and Ondo, Mr. Effa Imoh Okim, has extolled the Nigeria media for supporting the agency to achieve its purpose.
Okim stated this when he led a team of EFCC operatives on a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council secretariat, Benin City.
Pointing out that spraying of money at public functions is worse than engaging in cyber scam, Mr. Effa Okim regretted that lavish display of wealth at social gatherings. He said this habit was exacerbating the thirst among Nigerian youths to acquire wealth by any means necessary. This he noted has often propelled youths towards unethical behaviors like internet fraud, also known as “Yahoo-Yahoo.”
He posited that, it is unfortunate that Edo State is rank as the second highest in cybercrime activities nationally, just trailing behind Lagos State.
Mr. Okim emphasized that EFCC would collaborate with the NUJ to boost awareness and enforcement measures aimed at dismantling cybercrime networks.
He said it was of grave concern that materialism has not only led to cybercrime alarmingly, but also to ritualistic acts and family exploitation.
He blamed laxity among parents in guiding their children’s activities, saying there was an an urgent need for societal introspection and realignment.
Mr. Okim revealed plans to implement laws sternly against accessories to crime. This would involve legal actions against landlords who lease properties to cybercriminals, effectively dismantling the support networks enabling these youths.
Mr. Okim assured journalists of continuous access and cooperation, underscoring the pivotal role of journalism in societal reformation.
“The EFCC’s image is very relevant, it wouldn’t have been without you. At a point where they think Nigeria cannot make it, with your support we restored public confidence in us. When it comes to the issue of image, you are important.
“But our vision and mission is not yet achieved that is why we are here to seek your support in eliminating this menace called economic and financial crimes in Nigeria.
The Chairman of the Edo State NUJ, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, pledged support for the EFCC initiatives.