EFCC Raises the Alarm Over Rising Youth Involvement in Cybercrime in Lagos State

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised a red flag over the alarming rate at which young people in Lagos State are getting involved in cybercrime, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.”

In a statement released earlier today, the anti-graft agency expressed deep concern about the increasing sophistication and brazenness of cybercriminal activities being perpetrated by youths across the state. According to the EFCC, Lagos has emerged as a major hotspot for internet fraud, with recent crackdowns uncovering large networks of illicit online schemes operated predominantly by individuals under the age of 30.

“The trend is disturbing,” the EFCC spokesperson stated. “Our recent operations in various parts of Lagos have revealed a growing number of young Nigerians engaging in cybercrime as a lifestyle, driven by the allure of fast money and social media influence.”

The Commission noted that despite sustained awareness campaigns, arrests, and prosecutions, many youths continue to see internet fraud as a viable means of livelihood, often celebrating it openly on social media platforms.

Authorities are now calling on parents, community leaders, and educational institutions to intensify moral and digital literacy education to counter the glamorization of cybercrime. The EFCC also reiterated its commitment to cracking down on financial crimes and has promised to scale up intelligence-led operations across the state.

This latest warning from the EFCC comes in the wake of several high-profile arrests and the discovery of cybercrime rings operating out of high-end residential areas in Lagos, including Lekki, Ajah, and Ikeja.

The Commission has vowed not to relent in its fight against cybercrime, warning that it will continue to pursue offenders and bring them to justice, regardless of their age or status.