In a stunning revelation, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, disclosed a chilling encounter where a 17-year-old hacked into his personal computer and bank account during an interrogation at his Lagos office.
Speaking candidly to editors at the EFCC Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, Olukoyede recounted the hair-raising incident that unfolded right before his eyes. He narrated how he invited the teenager, a History and Anthropology student, to his office for questioning, only to witness the young hacker effortlessly breach the security measures of his locked computer.
Detailing the encounter, Olukoyede expressed disbelief as the teenager, using only his mobile phone and Olukoyede’s phone number, obtained sensitive banking information including the EFCC chairman’s Bank Verification Number (BVN) and account details.
“He asked for my number, I gave him my number and through my number, he got my BVN. He then mentioned the name of my account number to me at the bank. I didn’t tell him anything,” Olukoyede revealed.
Despite the alarming display of skills, Olukoyede emphasized the need to deter such actions, highlighting the potential repercussions including imprisonment or fatal consequences.
Recognizing the delicate balance between punishment and rehabilitation, Olukoyede stressed the EFCC’s approach of administering light sentences to young offenders while prioritizing their reorientation.
“We plead for light sentences so that we can reorientate them and that’s part of what we’re doing. What joy will I derive from sending a 17-year-old boy to jail? You have destroyed his future. You have destroyed his career,” Olukoyede lamented.
In a touching gesture of compassion, Olukoyede pledged to support the teenager’s education if he agreed to cease his criminal activities, acknowledging the boy’s familial responsibilities and untapped potential.
“I saw a Bill Gates in that guy,” Olukoyede remarked, highlighting the transformative power of guidance and support.
This revelation underscores the EFCC’s multifaceted approach to combating cybercrime, not only through enforcement but also through education and rehabilitation, with the ultimate aim of safeguarding the future of Nigeria’s youth.