Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has said that Nigeria and Africa could not realise their significant future prospects if the youths continue to engage in corruption and cybercrime.

“Greater prospects for Nigeria and Africa in the future will not be attainable if our youths continue to wallow in corruption and cybercrime,” Mr Olukoyede, who was represented by the assistant commander of the EFCC, Ibadan zonal directorate, Hauwa Garba Ringim, said.

He added, “African youths, especially Nigerian youths, must demonstrate exceptional innovation and dedication in order to make positive impact in the society.”

According to a statement published by the EFCC on Wednesday, the anti-graft czar made this statement at the 2024 Royal African Young Leadership Forum (RAYLF) Award ceremony, held at the Obafemi Awolowo University over the weekend.

In response to Mr Olukoyede’s comments, several netizens have urged the EFCC to direct its efforts towards tackling the corruption of high-profile politicians rather than focusing solely on the youth.

“After harassing the youths. Abeg, where is Yahaya Bello?,” tweeted @Vinosky01, sharing an image of the fugitive politician.

Another user, @Blunt_Clime, argued that “The politicians are the cause of fraud by youths. Prosecute the thieving politicians to secure the future of the youths; otherwise, nothing on earth will stop them from committing fraud.”