Nigerian higher education institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, are witnessing an increasing prevalence of advanced fee fraud, commonly known as “Yahoo Yahoo,” among their students. More students are opting for this risky path to quick wealth in an attempt to impress and outshine their peers on campuses across the country.
Instead of concentrating on their studies, these students choose to deceive unsuspecting victims and use the proceeds to buy luxury cars and socialize with attractive companions while in school. The ostentatious display of wealth by students involved in advanced fee fraud tends to attract other students who aspire to emulate such a lifestyle.
In response to this trend, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been conducting operations to apprehend students believed to be involved in internet-related offenses. Several higher institutions, including Kwara State University, Obafemi Awolowo University, Akwa Ibom State University, Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH), and Olabisi Onabanjo University, have been targeted by EFCC operatives, resulting in the arrests of students suspected of engaging in such activities.
For instance, in April, EFCC operatives arrested 19 students of Akwa Ibom State University in Mkpat-Enin, Akwa Ibom State, on charges related to internet-related offenses. Some of the suspects were allegedly involved in romance scams, fraudulent cryptocurrency transactions, and impersonation. Just last week, approximately 70 students of Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun State, were arrested for suspected internet-related offenses.
To address this issue, some institutions, such as Ladoke Akintola University in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, have implemented measures to restrict students from driving or bringing cars to the campus. They have also prohibited tinted vehicles for both staff and students, requiring learner permits to be displayed on the vehicles of novice drivers.
The EFCC has also announced plans to collaborate with university management across the country, recognizing the university environment as a place where youths are shaped both academically and morally. They aim to work together with universities to combat the “Yahoo Yahoo” phenomenon.
The influence of internet fraudsters on other students is a growing concern. It distracts students from their studies, leading to negative academic and moral impacts. Peer influence plays a significant role in this problem, as students are drawn to the lavish lifestyles of fraudsters. Some educators suggest that anti-corruption education should start at an earlier stage of education to instill core values from a young age.
The negative effects of Yahoo boys’ actions extend beyond morality; they can also lead to reckless behavior on campuses, including accidents that harm fellow students. Some believe that the parents of these students are partially responsible for supporting their illegitimate activities.
To combat this issue, punitive measures have been proposed as a way to deter students from engaging in fraudulent activities. Sensitization programs within schools and increased security and surveillance on campuses are seen as important steps in addressing the problem. Ultimately, a multifaceted approach involving education, deterrence, and parental involvement is essential to tackling the “Yahoo Yahoo” menace among Nigerian students.