Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has reiterated the need for students to join the fight against corruption in the country, stressing that the monster does only exist in government but also thrives in homes and schools.

Mr Olukoyede, who spoke during the inauguration of Integrity Club at Al-Hikmah University, Kwara State, on Wednesday, said students should be committed to promoting transparency, discipline and patriotism.

He said, “Corruption is not a distant or abstract concept; it is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. It takes many forms—from bribery and exam malpractice to cybercrime and sex-for-grades. These acts do not only exist in government; they thrive in our homes, schools, and among our peers. And this is why every Nigerian, especially students, must take ownership of the fight against it.”

The EFCC boss, represented by the Head Public Affairs Department of the Commission in Ilorin, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE11 Ayodele Babatunde, noted the event was to create zero tolerance for corruption among young Nigerians and build a generation of youths committed to good governance and national development.

He further lamented the involvement of students in internet fraud, charging them to uphold the values of hard work and ethical leadership in their schools and communities.

“Education should empower you with knowledge, not with schemes to defraud others. Social media may glorify criminal wealth, but the reality is often disgrace, prison, or worse. Your responsibility as members of the Integrity Club is to promote transparency, discipline, patriotism, and to serve as ethical role models. You are the eyes and ears of integrity on this campus,” Mr Olukoyede noted.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of University, Noah Yusuf, lauded the commission for its efforts to educate young Nigerians on the dangers of corruption and unethical consciousness, assuring EFCC of its continued support in the fight against the monster.

Mr Yusuf said, “The EFCC has shown tremendous foresight by targeting the youth for early re-orientation. At Al-Hikmah University, we are proud to align with this vision and commit to nurturing students who not only excel academically but also stand tall in character.’’