The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently held an important public lecture in Enugu as part of the African Union’s 2025 Anti-Corruption Week. The event, which took place at the International Conference Centre, focused on the theme: “Understanding Virtual Asset and Investment Fraud.”
The lecture aimed to educate Nigerians, especially young people about the rising cases of fraud involving virtual assets like cryptocurrency, online investments, and digital money transfers.
Representatives from the Nigerian military, civil society groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other key stakeholders attended the event. Many of them expressed concern over how quickly internet fraud, also known as "Yahoo Yahoo," is spreading across the country and destroying the values of hard work and honesty.
Speaking at the event, senior EFCC officials warned the public against falling for fake online investment opportunities. They explained that many of these scams promise huge profits but end up stealing people’s money. The commission said that scammers are now using social media, fake websites, and even celebrities to trick innocent citizens.
According to the EFCC, victims of these scams are not just the poor or uneducated. Even business owners, students, and professionals have lost millions of naira to fraudulent online schemes. The agency advised people to be cautious and always verify the authenticity of any investment platform before sending money or sharing personal details.
Participants at the event praised the EFCC for taking proactive steps in spreading awareness and pushing for preventive education, especially among the youth.
The EFCC also encouraged traditional and religious leaders to help in the fight against corruption by teaching their communities about the dangers of internet fraud and the importance of living an honest life.
This anti-corruption public lecture is one of many activities organized across Africa to mark the African Union's Anti-Corruption Week, a time dedicated to discussing ways to reduce corruption and promote integrity in both public and private life.
The event in Enugu ended with a call to action for everyone government, schools, communities, and families unite in the fight against corruption and help build a more honest and secure Nigeria.
