The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is seeking increased collaboration with the media to combat the growing instances of real estate crimes, money laundering, and internet-related offenses in the state and nationwide.

The acting Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulkarim Chukkol, expressed concern about the rising involvement of Nigerians in internet crimes and money laundering activities, both domestically and internationally.

Chukkol conveyed this message through the EFCC Assistant Zonal Commander 1, Uyo Zonal Command, Bawa Hamidu Saidu, during a one-day workshop held for journalists in Akwa Ibom State on the effective reporting of economic and financial crimes.

He commended journalists for their contributions in reporting the activities of the commission, particularly in arrests and arraignments, and assured them that the EFCC was determined to curb the increasing incidents of real estate crimes.

Chukkol also cautioned the public to be wary of individuals who impersonate EFCC officials to extort money from them, highlighting the real estate sector as a significant hub for money laundering in Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Assistant Director of Media and Publicity at the EFCC, Mr. Dele Oyewale, expressed his satisfaction with the commission's efforts in reducing cybercrimes despite the challenges they face.

He encouraged journalists to maintain professionalism and impartiality in their investigations. Oyewale emphasized the need for greater collaboration and cooperation between the media and the EFCC at the zonal and corporate headquarters levels.

During his lecture on "Trends, Peculiarities, and Challenges of Cybercrime Enforcement in Nigeria," Assistant Commander 2 at the EFCC, Emeka Ukpai, highlighted Nigeria's reputation as a breeding ground for cybercrime due to the high level of involvement by its citizens, both domestically and internationally.