The South-East Zone of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has extended heartfelt condolences to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the tragic death of one of its operatives, Aminu Sahabi Salisu. The Assistant Superintendent was allegedly killed on 17 January 2025 by a suspected internet fraudster, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, during an official operation in Awka, Anambra State.

In a visit to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on 24 January, led by the NANS Southeast Coordinator, Charles Obinna Ijeomah, the student body expressed regret over the incident and pledged to collaborate with the EFCC in sensitising students against cybercrime.

“We are deeply sorry for the loss of your officer,” Ijeomah said. “As student leaders, it is our responsibility to educate and orient students on the dangers of internet crime. We condemn the killing of the EFCC operative and assure you such acts are not a reflection of who we are as a people in the Southeast. Hard work and integrity are our values.”

Ijeomah further stated that the students’ association plans to partner with the EFCC to extend anti-corruption campaigns and awareness programmes to university campuses across the region. He assured the Commission of the students’ readiness to support its efforts to curb financial crimes.

Speaking on behalf of the EFCC’s Executive Chairman, Secretary Muhammad Hammajoda expressed gratitude for the visit, emphasising the need for collective action in the fight against corruption.

“We appreciate your support and willingness to collaborate. Every one of us has a role to play in this fight. We will stand by you in your programmes and encourage you to spread the anti-corruption message among your peers,” Hammajoda said.

Hammajoda urged students to take advantage of government initiatives like the Student Loan Scheme and the Credit Scheme to reduce financial pressures that might push them toward cybercrime.

The EFCC’s Chief of Staff, Michael Nzekwe, underscored the severe impact of internet fraud on Nigeria’s image and economy, noting that cybercrime in the Southeast has reached alarming levels, including more sophisticated forms such as “Yahoo-Plus.”

“Cybercrime has caused significant damage to our international reputation and economy,” Nzekwe said. “The trend of internet fraud in the Southeast has escalated, and we must all work together to stop it. The EFCC will not tolerate any further attacks on its operatives.”

Nzekwe encouraged the students to act decisively against cybercrime within their communities, stressing the importance of protecting the country’s reputation and future.

The visit marked a commitment from both sides to collaborate on educational campaigns aimed at reducing youth involvement in internet fraud and fostering a culture of integrity and hard work.