In a candid and thought-provoking statement, a respected Nigerian Appeals Court judge has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to redirect its focus from chasing so-called “Yahoo boys” to targeting more significant and impactful offenders. This admonition, shared via the official X handle of Nigerian Stories, has sparked widespread discussion about the priorities of Nigeria’s anti-graft agency.
The judge’s remark, “Go after bigger fish, not Yahoo boys,” underscores a growing concern among Nigerians over the EFCC’s operational strategy. Critics argue that the agency often prioritizes the arrest of petty internet fraudsters over pursuing high-profile individuals involved in large-scale corruption and financial crimes.
Internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo boys,” have long been the face of Nigeria’s cybercrime woes. However, many believe that the EFCC’s intense focus on this group may divert attention and resources from addressing systemic corruption, which poses a far greater threat to the nation’s development.
Prominent activists, legal experts, and members of civil society have echoed the judge’s sentiments, urging the EFCC to concentrate on dismantling organized crime networks, investigating embezzlement by public officials, and prosecuting corporate fraud.
The EFCC has indeed achieved notable victories against cybercrime, with numerous arrests and convictions of internet fraudsters. However, critics argue that such successes are often headline-grabbing but do little to address the root causes of corruption that permeate Nigeria’s political and economic systems.
They point to the agency’s inconsistent pursuit of high-ranking government officials and influential businesspeople accused of financial mismanagement. Observers have also noted that cases involving “big fish” often languish in courts for years, with few resulting in convictions.
The judge’s statement is more than a critique—it’s a call to action. By prioritizing cases with significant economic impact, the EFCC can restore public confidence in its mandate to curb corruption. This shift would require robust investigative strategies, partnerships with international anti-graft agencies, and a commitment to transparency in handling sensitive cases.
The comment has ignited a flurry of responses on social media. While some praised the judge for addressing a long-standing issue, others criticized the judiciary for its perceived role in delaying justice in high-profile cases.
“Arresting Yahoo boys is like treating a symptom while ignoring the disease,” wrote one X user. “Corruption at the top is what fuels economic hardship for millions of Nigerians.”
Another respondent countered, “Both Yahoo boys and high-profile criminals are damaging our reputation. The EFCC should tackle all forms of fraud simultaneously.”
This latest development adds to the ongoing conversation about the EFCC’s effectiveness and the broader fight against corruption in Nigeria. Whether the agency will heed this call to focus on “bigger fish” remains to be seen. One thing, however, is clear: Nigerians are demanding a more strategic and impactful approach to eradicating corruption in all its forms.
The judge’s bold statement serves as a wake-up call—not just for the EFCC, but for all stakeholders committed to building a fair and just society.
PIONEER NEWS 