Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised concerns over what he describes as a deepening moral and institutional crisis in Nigeria, following a startling claim by Olanipekun Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), that approximately 60 percent of Nigerian university students may be involved in cybercrime.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Obi said that if the EFCC’s assertion holds true, it signals not merely a surge in criminal activity but a broader collapse of institutional accountability, leadership standards, and societal values.

Describing the figure as “deeply alarming,” Obi cautioned against dismissing the claim, stressing that it raises critical questions about governance, role models, and the moral direction of Nigeria’s youth.

“The alarming claim made by the EFCC chairman that six out of ten Nigerian university students are involved in ‘419’ is extremely concerning and should not be taken lightly,” Obi stated.

Referencing Nigeria’s estimated university population of between 2 and 2.5 million students, the former Anambra State governor warned that such a proportion would translate into a national emergency.

“We are not just dealing with a crime problem; we are confronting a serious moral and systemic failure if roughly 1.4 million young people are involved in fraud,” he added.

Obi linked the trend to what he described as a weakening moral framework within society, arguing that young people often mirror the behaviors and values demonstrated by those in leadership.

“It sends a dangerous message when wrongdoing appears to be rewarded, when integrity is not upheld, and when individuals in positions of authority face allegations of dishonesty without consequence,” he said.

Calling for urgent national introspection, Obi emphasized that the issue should not be framed as an attack on Nigerian youth, but rather as a reflection of systemic failures at the top.

“Nigeria must examine itself. This is not about vilifying our young people. It is about recognizing that leadership sets the tone,” he noted.

He further underscored the need to restore integrity in public life, insisting that accountability must be applied consistently to rebuild public trust.

“We cannot expect integrity at the bottom if we do not demonstrate it at the top,” Obi stated.

Obi concluded by urging a national commitment to rebuilding ethical standards and fostering a culture that values honesty, discipline, and hard work.

His remarks come amid growing concern from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over the rising involvement of undergraduates in cybercrime. The agency has repeatedly warned that the trend poses a significant threat to national security and has called for urgent reforms to strengthen institutional accountability and governance structures.