A lecturer at the Department of Mass Communication, Kano State Polytechnic, Aisar Salihu Musa, has expressed deep concern over the growing involvement of students in internet fraud, warning that the trend reflects a worrying moral and ethical decline in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

In an interview with SolaceBase TV, Musa described internet fraud — commonly referred to as Yahoo Yahoo — as a form of cybercrime where individuals use digital platforms and gadgets to deceive others for financial gain.

He highlighted various tactics used by fraudsters, including love scams, identity theft, and fake online businesses.

“Someone may open a social media account with a profile photo of a beautiful woman to start online dating. After gaining the victim’s trust, they begin requesting money,” Musa said.

He also mentioned instances where fraudsters target digitally illiterate users to steal personal and financial information.

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The lecturer emphasized that students are increasingly drawn into these activities due to their tech-savviness and unrestricted access to digital platforms.

“They are Generation Z — experts in using and manipulating digital media. Many of them come from poor backgrounds and want to live flamboyant lifestyles they cannot afford,” he noted.

Referencing the recent arrest of more than 25 students from Bayero University Kano and other institutions for alleged internet fraud, Musa called the incident a wake-up call.

He stressed that it should prompt tertiary institutions to strengthen moral and character assessments during student admissions.

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“This should open our eyes. University is not only a place to get certificates but also to build character. Schools must take online fraud seriously and introduce rigorous admission screening processes to prevent morally bankrupt individuals from gaining entry,” he advised.

On the causes of internet fraud among students, Musa identified poverty, greed, peer pressure, and unemployment as key drivers.

He observed that many students fund their own education and are lured by the promise of quick riches without hard work.

“Some don’t want to earn halal income through legitimate labour; they want to wake up one day as millionaires. Others are influenced by peers who wear expensive clothes and gadgets,” he said.

Musa also questioned the role of the media, asserting that while some efforts have been made, reporting has largely been limited to arrests and court proceedings.

He called on media outlets to go beyond crime reports and develop educational programs, documentaries, and investigative reports that expose the techniques and consequences of cybercrime.

He recalled a real-life case in his neighbourhood, where a boy repeatedly lost his family’s business money to internet baiting and fraud — a situation that nearly led to domestic violence.

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“Two major digital threats — baiting and fraud — are now ravaging the youth,” he said.

The lecturer emphasized the collective responsibility of parents, teachers, religious scholars, traditional rulers, and media professionals in curbing the menace. “Everyone has a role to play.

Parents must be vigilant, not just give birth and look away. Know who your children move with and what they do online,” he advised.

He lamented the fading communal value of “da na kowa ne”, loosely translated as “a child belongs to anyone”, stating that society must stop ignoring the wrongdoings of youth under the excuse of minding one’s business.

“If we fail to act, we might all become victims someday,” he warned.

Finally, Musa urged the media to prioritize digital literacy campaigns, helping the public understand cybercriminals’ methods and how to avoid falling victim.

“Media should focus more on prevention by making people digitally literate,” he said.