The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of popular singer, Afeez Fashola, otherwise known as Naira Marley, and others in relation to alleged advance fee scam and related cyber crimes.
According to Premium Times, the musician was arrested by the EFCC in Lagos. The arrest may not be unconnected with Naira Marley’s advocation for Yahoo Boys, colloquial for people who engage in Internet fraud.
Naira Marley had during a recent Instagram live session, urged Nigerians to pray for internet fraudsters (Yahoo boys) saying they are the reason money circulates to the common man.
His words: “All you guys, all the money in your pockets, all the money you spend, you think it’s the government that is making the money go round?”
The video has since stirred reactions from Nigerians who described Marley as a disgrace and bad example to young Nigerians.
In his reaction, Ruggedman reminded the artist that “thousands of qualified Nigerians can’t get jobs outside Nigeria because of ‘yahoo’.
“Their families are suffering. Young Nigerians are suspect everywhere they go because of “yahoo”. If you want to do it, enjoy. Nobody is stopping you. But remember that if you do the crime, if you are caught you do the time.”
Well, we don’t know if Naira Marley was actually engaged in Internet fraud and that’s something the EFCC no doubt want to investigate.
The acting EFCC spokesperson, Mr Tony Orilade reportedly confirms the arrest to a Punch correspondent: “Yes, he is with us. He’s not the only person; he had some other persons also arrested alongside (him).
“They were arrested in relation to advance fee fraud — Internet-related cases and all of that. Give me a little time and I will get you the details.”
The EFCC last year launched Operation Cyber Storm which sought to curb the activities of Internet fraudsters. Over 150 suspects have been reportedly arrested across the country.
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