EFCC’s assertion that students are involved in cybercrimes is criticised by NANS.

In response to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s assertion that 70% of Nigerian students engage in cybercrime, the National Association of Nigerian Students has strongly criticised the agency.

“The baseless assertion not only tarnishes the reputation of our hardworking and dedicated student community but also lacks any empirical basis,” the association stated in a statement released today by its Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde.

In a statement released on Monday, Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the anti-graft agency, expressed concern over the fact that a majority of today’s kids are engaged in cybercrimes. These are the next generation of leaders, and we are training them now. In the fight against internet fraud, the media should not stop educating young people about the dangers of these illegal practises.

The academic, leadership, and volunteer achievements of our students have been nothing short of remarkable. It is unfair and irresponsible to generalise and say that most of them are criminals.

False generalisations about an entire group of people are detrimental because they reinforce negative stereotypes and violate the right to a fair trial, which we uphold. We must find a way to deal with criminal activity without unjustly shaming a whole class of children who are trying very hard to improve themselves academically and personally.

Noting that it “believes in constructive dialogue and collaboration to address any concerns related to criminal activities,” it urged the anti-graft leader to either retract the statement immediately or give concrete evidence backing it.

The dedication of NANS to creating a supportive atmosphere that encourages learning, development, and progress was reaffirmed by Babatunde.