Presidential aide slams EFCC boss for labelling Nigerian students fraudsters

Hon. Sunday Asefon, Senior Special Assistant to President on Student Engagement, has faulted a statement credited to the Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, where he referred to 70 per cent of Nigerian students as fraudsters.

Asefon, in a letter he wrote to the EFCC boss, said public reference to Nigerian students as fraudsters was an unfair and inaccurate representation of the Nigerian students’ community.

The former President of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), in the letter dated 7th December, and obtained in Abuja on Tuesday, rejected the labelling of Nigerian students as fraudsters, saying the purported statement has caused concerns among students, parents, and educational stakeholders.

Part of Asefon’s letter read: “I am writing to express my concern regarding a recent statement attributed to you, where you reportedly referred to 70% of Nigerian students as fraudsters.

“As the Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Students’ Engagement, I believe it is crucial to address the potential misrepresentation of our student community.

“While I understand the EFCC’s commitment to combating fraud and corruption, it is essential to approach such statements with caution, considering the potential impact they may have on the reputation of our students.

“Education is a cornerstone of national development, and broad generalizations can unfairly stigmatize a significant portion of our youth.

“I kindly request reconsideration and clarification of the context and intent behind your statement, as it has caused concerns among students, parents, and educational stakeholders.

“I believe that fostering a constructive dialogue between your esteemed agency and the student community can contribute to a better understanding of the challenges faced by both parties which my office can perfectly organize.

“I do not know what parameters the EFCC is using, but I know that data is completely incorrect and may further decimate the value of our certificate in the global space.

“I also encourage you to be more meticulous in your public statements to avoid inadvertently portraying a negative image of our students.

“A more nuanced and accurate representation will strengthen the collaboration between the EFCC and the youth in our ongoing efforts to build a prosperous and corruption-free nation which is in line with the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr President.

“I appreciate your attention to this matter and your continued dedication to the fight against corruption. I am confident that with your leadership, we can work together to create an environment that fosters understanding and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the vibrant student population of our nation,” Asefon stated.

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