Yahoo Boys Wiped Out Judge’s ₦7.2m Savings Overnight — EFCC Boss

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has revealed how suspected internet fraudsters allegedly emptied the bank account of a serving judge overnight, making away with more than ₦7.2 million that had been saved over six years for the education of the judge’s child.

According to reports, Olukoyede made the disclosure on Friday during the public presentation of two books written by retired High Court judge, Justice Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye. He recounted that the judge contacted him around 1 a.m. after being awakened by a series of debit alerts indicating that her account had been compromised.

The EFCC chairman explained that the victim discovered that approximately ₦7.2 million had been withdrawn from her account within a short period. He further revealed that the incident occurred in a state where the commission had previously been restrained by a court order from investigating certain financial crimes.

Narrating the incident, Olukoyede said he reminded the judge that the EFCC had been barred from carrying out investigations in the state due to an existing court injunction. However, he said the judge insisted that immediate action be taken because of the urgency of the situation.

He disclosed that the anti-graft agency swiftly launched an investigation and successfully recovered the entire stolen amount before the close of business on the same day. Olukoyede noted that the experience underscored the devastating impact of cybercrime and suggested it could influence future judicial perspectives on cases seeking to restrict the commission’s operations.

The EFCC boss stressed that tackling cybercrime requires a united effort involving law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and the general public. He maintained that only through collective commitment and collaboration can Nigeria effectively curb the growing menace of internet-related financial crimes.

Olukoyede also disclosed that the commission has begun deploying artificial intelligence in criminal investigations to enhance its operations. However, he acknowledged that significant legal reforms are required to ensure that AI-generated evidence can be admitted in Nigerian courts. He urged lawmakers, legal scholars, and other stakeholders to develop a legal framework that addresses the evolving role of artificial intelligence in criminal investigations and prosecution.

Also speaking at the event, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), called on the EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies to intensify efforts aimed at recovering public funds allegedly looted and stashed in foreign countries.