Yahoo-Yahoo Boys Bringing National Shame to Nigeria — EFCC Boss Laments

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has strongly criticized the activities of internet fraudsters, commonly referred to as Yahoo-Yahoo boys, describing them as a major source of national embarrassment for Nigeria on the international stage.

Speaking during a media briefing on Monday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, Olukoyede warned that the country is facing a growing crisis due to the actions of these young fraudsters. He expressed concern over how their criminal activities have severely damaged the reputation of Nigerians abroad, especially during immigration checks.

“I want Nigerians to understand that we are dealing with a crisis,” he said. “When you travel overseas with a Nigerian passport and stand in line at immigration, you’ll notice the way you are looked at with suspicion. Sometimes, you’re pulled aside for extra scrutiny. That’s a national shame caused by the activities of Yahoo-Yahoo boys.”

According to Olukoyede, the consequences of cybercrime go beyond online scams. He revealed that some of these fraudsters are also involved in more dangerous criminal activities such as banditry, kidnapping, and laundering money for politically exposed persons, both in and out of government.

“The issue isn’t just Yahoo-Yahoo anymore. Some of these individuals are heavily involved in criminal networks. When they run out of people to scam, they turn to kidnapping or banditry. Some of them even help politicians move stolen public funds,” he said.

War against Yahoo-Yahoo is not ending anytime soon!

WHY?

Listen to the following reasons by the Executive Chairman of the EFCC @OlaOlukoyede_

The Eagle is relentless!#EndYahooYahoo#EFCCNigeria pic.twitter.com/erTsHG0kif

— EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) June 16, 2025