Abdulrasheed Bawa, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has made a clear stance on the issue of poverty and unemployment as justifications for engaging in computer-related frauds.

The statement was conveyed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, in Abuja. According to Bawa, poverty and unemployment should not be considered valid excuses for individuals resorting to cyber crimes.

He reported Bawa as saying this in a lecture titled: “The Roles of Youths in Curbing Economic and Financial Crimes,” delivered at the Orientation/ Matriculation programme for fresh students of the Lagos State University, Lagos.

In his address, Bawa emphasized that poverty should never be used as a justification for engaging in criminal activities. Similarly, he asserted that unemployment should not serve as a foundation for defrauding individuals of their legitimate earnings, particularly by the youth involved in internet-related fraud.

During the statement, the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, was represented by ACE1 Michael Wetkaz, Commander of the Lagos Zonal Command of the EFCC. Wetkaz reiterated the significance of the youth as key contributors to nation-building. He expressed his belief that if young people display a willingness to be agents of change in their various pursuits, they can effectively confront and overcome corrupt practices.

By highlighting the importance of ethical behavior and integrity, Bawa’s remarks aimed to encourage the youth to actively contribute to the development and progress of the nation, rather than resorting to fraudulent activities as a result of challenging circumstances such as poverty or unemployment.

“You cannot tackle any crime that you are committing. Be change agents by refusing to be involved in, facilitate or perpetrate any form of economic crime.

“In your interactions within and outside the school environment, steer clear of criminality. This way, you can positively influence everyone around you,” he said.