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A viral graphic is sparking heated debate among Nigerians about the true focus of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The image, widely shared online, shows what people think is on the eagle’s mind—“Yahoo Boys”—and what critics believe is the reality—procurement fraud, contract inflation, looted funds, budget padding, and other financial crimes involving the powerful. Read Our Last Post: Finnish Court Sentences Simon Ekpa to Six Years in Prison for Terrorism Charges
Many Nigerians are reacting with mixed emotions, accusing the EFCC of targeting the poor and the powerless while leaving politically connected individuals untouched.
Uche Vitalis commented that while many see the EFCC as active against internet fraudsters, the eagle tends to go silent during election periods, only to resurface when political tensions fade. Charles Ujunwa Ingreen added, “Selective fight against financial crimes. The eagle only watches for the weak and soft chick to catch. It is a fact about the eagle.”
This growing perception paints a troubling picture of justice in Nigeria. Citizens are asking why corruption cases involving billions of naira often drag on for years, while smaller cases involving young internet fraudsters are swiftly prosecuted. The feeling of imbalance in the system is feeding public mistrust and hopelessness.
From a financial angle, the issue goes deeper. When financial crimes at the top go unpunished, the entire economy suffers. Stolen public funds mean fewer jobs, poor infrastructure, low-quality healthcare, and a lack of opportunities for young people. The result is that some frustrated youths turn to shortcuts like internet fraud, which then becomes the main focus of EFCC arrests.
In truth, every kobo lost to corruption is money stolen from the masses. Until the fight against financial crimes becomes fair and balanced, the eagle will remain a symbol of selective justice rather than national protection.
