The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly urged the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukayode, to issue an apology following his alleged claim that a significant number of Nigerian students are involved in cybercrime.
Reacting to the reported statement, NANS President, Pedro Chibuzo Obi, expressed disappointment in a statement on Friday, emphasizing that such assertions discredit the efforts of Nigerian students who prioritize their education.
Obi’s statement conveyed the organization’s dismay, stating, “It is with a heavy heart and an ardent sense of perturbation that we, as an organization, categorically denounce and repudiate these baseless allegations.” The NANS president highlighted the unwarranted nature of the comments, emphasizing the commendable perseverance and commitment displayed by Nigerian students in pursuit of academic excellence despite economic challenges and rising academic fees.
The statement further noted that such unfounded claims from a position of authority create an atmosphere of despondency and disillusionment among students, undermining their relentless efforts to secure a brighter future through education. NANS vehemently demanded an immediate retraction of the alleged statement and urged Mr. Ola Olukayode to issue an unequivocal apology to the entire student community.
The controversy arose from reports quoting Olukayode, who allegedly stated at an event in Abuja that it is worrisome that seven out of 10 students are involved in cybercrimes. However, the EFCC, in a subsequent statement, debunked the reports, asserting that Olukayode’s comments were misinterpreted.
The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, clarified that the chairman never stated that seven out of 10 Nigerian students are engaged in internet fraud. Despite the EFCC’s clarification, NANS is resolute in its call for an apology and retraction of the statement.
