An intriguing incident took place where the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, shared how a 17-year-old hacker managed to hack into both his personal computer and bank account while being interrogated at his office in Lagos.
In a recent chat with editors at the EFCC Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, Olukoyede recounted the moment when the young hacker flawlessly bypassed the security measures of his locked computer right in front of him.
Olukoyede narrated, “I brought a seventeen-year-old boy, who is studying History and Anthropology, to my Lagos office. Despite not having a science-related background, the individual showcased some impressive skills on my laptop.”
“He asked for my number, obtained my BVN through it, and even mentioned my bank account details to me without my prompting.”
Olukoyede emphasized the need for measures to deter such individuals, as their actions could lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment or worse.
“I view this as both a criminal act and an opportunity. It is essential to educate these individuals about the wrongness of their actions and guide them towards more productive endeavors.”
The EFCC chairman highlighted the agency’s approach of imposing lenient sentences on young cybercriminals, aiming to redirect their focus and mindset through rehabilitation efforts.
Expressing his skills, the boy confidently claimed he could transfer up to 10 million naira from any account in a single transaction.
Olukoyede recalled the boy stating, “I can transfer 10 million now. I will demonstrate it by moving funds from your account to mine.”
Explaining his involvement in cybercrime, the boy cited security concerns that prevented his farmer parents from working on their farm, making him the primary provider for the family’s sustenance and his siblings’ education.
“He has two younger siblings whom he supports financially. Observing his potential, I see a future entrepreneur in him,” Olukoyede added.
Pledging to sponsor the boy’s education if he abandoned criminal activities, Olukoyede expressed his commitment to provide support.
“I have discussed it with my family, and we are prepared to take responsibility for his schooling. I have also approached a friend willing to support the education of his older sibling in SSS2,” Olukoyede said.
This isn’t the first time Olukoyede has disclosed the EFCC’s strategy to reform convicted cybercriminals through reduced sentences and rehabilitation.
During a meeting with the National Association of University Students in March 2024, he stressed the importance of preventing youths from engaging in cybercrime and avoiding the repercussions of being labeled as “ex-convicts.”