Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has urged students to shun criminal acts, warning that they will forfeit the opportunity to hold any public office if convicted of a crime.

“Anyone who engages in financial crimes is on a path that leads to jail. Once convicted, such a person becomes an ex-convict and loses the opportunity to hold any public office in Nigeria. That is a heavy price to pay for associating with the wrong crowd,” Mr Olukoyede said.

According to a statement by the EFCC on Wednesday, the anti-graft czar gave this charge during the induction of students of Excellent Kiddies Academy, Bwari, Abuja, into EFCC’s Integrity Club.

Urging the students to avoid bad company and surround themselves with good friends, Mr Olukoyede said, “To secure a brighter future, you must get it right from the beginning. Surround yourself with good people, friends and acquaintances that will help you grow in wisdom and integrity.”