By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
May 25, 2026
The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, has declared that the fight against internet fraud must become a collective responsibility of parents, landlords, community leaders, and the youth, urging residents to build a united front against cybercrime in the state.
Fanwo made the call on Monday, May 25, 2026, during the Kogi Anti-Internet Fraud Campaign held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Lokoja, where stakeholders gathered to address the growing menace of internet fraud and cyber-related crimes among youths.
Speaking passionately at the event, the Commissioner commended the convener of the campaign, Oluseyi Kelvin Eleta, for championing a cause aimed at restoring dignity, discipline, and responsibility among young people in the state.
“We appreciate Hon. Kelvin for organizing this programme. This campaign is timely and necessary for the future of our society,” Fanwo stated.
The Commissioner disclosed that the state government would deploy its information dissemination platforms, especially Radio Kogi, to intensify awareness campaigns against internet fraud across communities in the state.
According to him, the battle against cybercrime cannot be left to security agencies alone, stressing that families and property owners must also take responsibility.
“We need to talk to parents. When your young children who are doing nothing suddenly begin to bring cars home and you are not questioning them, then you are indirectly supporting criminality,” he warned.
Fanwo appealed to parents to become active advocates against internet fraud by instilling discipline and moral values in their children, adding that every youth must remember the family and reputation they represent.
“Please as youths, remember the family you come from. Your actions can either bring honour or shame to your household,” he added.
The Commissioner also sent a strong warning to landlords who deliberately encourage criminal activities by exploiting suspected fraudsters through outrageous rents.
“Landlords should also take caution. Increasing house rent simply because you know Yahoo boys can rent six rooms together is dangerous. Remember, if law enforcement agencies arrest them, you may also be arrested,” he cautioned.
He emphasized the need for Kogites to collectively create what he described as “an ecosystem against internet fraud,” where communities reject criminality and encourage legitimate means of livelihood.
Also speaking at the programme, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Hon. Adeniyi Helen, warned youths against cyberbullying and other forms of online abuse, urging victims to report such incidents to relevant authorities.
She revealed that the Kogi Innovation Technology Hub would soon commence operations as part of government efforts to productively engage youths and reduce unemployment.
“In no distant time, the Kogi Innovation Technology Hub will kick off. This initiative is aimed at taking youths off the streets and equipping them with productive digital skills,” she said.
Describing the initiative as youth-oriented, Helen charged young people to embrace technological development positively and avoid activities capable of destroying their future.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Taiye Abanika, encouraged students and youths in the state to maximize the internet for educational advancement, innovation, and self-development rather than criminal activities.
He noted that the Kogi State Government is working towards making housing more affordable by creating an enabling environment for responsible development and investment in the sector.
The event attracted government officials, youths, stakeholders, students, and advocates committed to promoting responsible digital engagement and combating internet fraud in Kogi State.
