The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL), the umbrella body of youth groups drawn from across the six geopolitical zones of the country, is alarmed over the troubling rise in incidents of Advanced Fee Fraud, commonly referred to as “yahoo”, which has become a concerning trend among our youth.
This is as they promised to collaborate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other stakeholders to stop the menace.
The group, in a statement signed by Goodluck Ibem, its president general and obtained by BusinessDay, described the practice as illegal, noting that it not only undermines the integrity of the society but also contributes to a culture of deceit and criminality that ultimately jeopardises the future of young people.
CONYL called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to take immediate action by denouncing and discouraging their children from engaging in such illegal activities.
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“It is imperative that we instil in our youth the values of honesty, hard work, and perseverance. The quest for quick wealth may seem enticing, but the consequences, both legal and moral, are dire and far-reaching,” it noted.
The group commended the EFCC for its relentless efforts in combating fraud and financial crimes in the country, noting that its steadfast commitment to eradicating this scourge has been commendable, and urged the Commission to continue its vital work.
CONYL announced the launch of a comprehensive campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers and harmful impacts of Advanced Fee Fraud.
To achieve this, CONYL said that it would engage in community sensitisation programmes, workshops and outreach initiatives to educate young people about the importance of pursuing legitimate work and opportunities.
“Together, we can foster an environment that rewards honesty, integrity, and hard work, while safeguarding the future of our youth. Let us unite in this fight against fraud and ensure that our young people are equipped with the knowledge and guidance they need to make positive choices.
“By working together – parents, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies – we can effectively tackle the threat of Advanced Fee Fraud and create a society where our youth can thrive through legitimate means,” they said.
