A viral moment from a recent public forum involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sparked widespread discussion, after a bold question was posed to the agency’s spokesperson:
“Why aren’t politicians arrested the same way yahoo boys are?”
The question, delivered by an audience member during a youth engagement event in Abuja, drew thunderous applause and sparked an awkward pause before the EFCC spokesperson responded.
In his response, the spokesperson acknowledged the frustration of young Nigerians, particularly over the visible disparity in how the agency appears to treat cybercrime suspects (commonly known as "yahoo boys") versus politically exposed persons (PEPs).
“We understand how it looks, and we hear your concerns. But the truth is, cases involving politicians are often more complex, layered with legal immunity, political influence, and systemic delays. These aren’t excuses — they are realities we’re working hard to overcome.”
He added that cybercrime cases are often more straightforward to prosecute because of digital evidence trails and quicker investigations, whereas corruption cases involving public officials can take years of forensic auditing, international cooperation, and legal clearance, especially when sitting officials are involved.
Public Reaction: ‘Selective Justice Is Still Injustice’
The spokesperson’s explanation did little to quell public outcry, as Nigerians took to social media to express ongoing dissatisfaction with the perceived imbalance in Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight.
“We see videos of EFCC breaking into apartments at 3am to arrest students, but governors accused of looting billions are walking free — some even being celebrated,” wrote a user on X (formerly Twitter).
“Selective justice is still injustice. Until we see a governor in handcuffs on the front page, nothing has changed,” another added.
While the EFCC has indeed prosecuted several high-profile individuals over the years, critics argue that many politically connected suspects evade full accountability — often through delayed trials, plea bargains, or political shielding.
The agency has frequently denied claims of bias, stating that its mandate is non-discriminatory and that all suspects — whether rich, poor, political or private — are pursued in accordance with due process.
The incident reflects a growing demand among Nigerian youth for transparent and equal justice, particularly as the country continues to battle rising unemployment, inflation, and public-sector corruption.
As elections loom in 2027 and civic engagement increases, analysts suggest that public trust in institutions like the EFCC will depend heavily on their ability to balance the scales of justice — regardless of status or office.
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