The Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Lagos, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police (CP) Godwin Ayotunde Omodeinde has hosted a crucial dialogue with the leadership of key student bodies from Ogun State on January 16, 2025. In a statement released by The Police Public Relations Officer
Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ikoyi – Lagos, SP Eyitayo Johnson, The delegation included representatives from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Association of Southern Nigerian Students (ASONIS), and the Student Union Government of Gateway Polytechnic (GAPOSA).
This meeting followed the arrest of 14 individuals suspected of internet fraud in Saapade, Ogun State, on January 15, 2025. The suspects, aged between 18 and 28, included eight Gateway Polytechnic students, four NYSC members, and two individuals claiming to be an artist and a cobbler.
CP Omodeinde used the opportunity to emphasize the importance of collaboration between law-abiding students and the Nigeria Police. He urged the student leaders to uphold their mandate of protecting their members’ welfare while ensuring that those involved in criminal activities, such as cybercrime, are not shielded but handed over to law enforcement.
The Commissioner lauded the role of student leaders in fostering a positive relationship between the Police and the academic community and called for sustained synergy to maintain peace and security within and beyond the student population.
During the engagement, CP Omodeinde highlighted the detrimental effects of cybercrime on Nigeria’s global reputation and economic prospects. He explained how the country’s continued placement on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list hinders foreign investment, increases transaction costs, and poses challenges in international financial dealings. Other consequences include heightened regulatory scrutiny, loss of government revenue, weakened financial markets, and reduced cross-border transactions.
The Commissioner urged the student leaders to educate their members on the long-term damage caused by cybercrime and to advocate for ethical conduct among students to safeguard Nigeria’s future.
In response, the student leaders commended CP Omodeinde for his diplomacy, fairness, and visionary leadership. They expressed optimism that the dialogue would improve the relationship between the Police and the student community, fostering greater mutual understanding and cooperation.
The PSFU’s proactive engagement with student leaders underscores the Unit’s commitment to combating cybercrime while maintaining a harmonious relationship with law-abiding students.
