China seeks stronger ties with EFCC to combat cybercrime in Nigeria

Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, has proposed a collaborative effort between a Chinese working group and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to tackle cybercrime and related offenses, in a bid to curb the rising involvement of Chinese nationals in financial crimes in Nigeria.

Dunhai made the proposal during a visit to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, where he met with Ola Olukoyede, Commission’s Executive Chairman.

The envoy expressed regret over the involvement of some Chinese nationals in cyber and telecom fraud but assured that his government maintains a zero-tolerance policy for such crimes.

“The Chinese government is ready to send out a working group to Nigeria to work with your law enforcement officers for evidence collection, fraud tracing, and bringing criminals to justice,” Dunhai stated.

He emphasized that anti-corruption efforts are a priority for both Nigeria and China, adding that law enforcement collaboration has been an integral part of their diplomatic relations.

The ambassador also acknowledged a criminal migration trend, where fraudsters previously operating in other countries are now moving into Nigeria.

“We have instructed every Chinese overseas to strictly follow the laws of their host countries. However, intelligence suggests that some criminals are relocating to Nigeria, leading to recent arrests,” he explained.

While condemning criminal activities involving his compatriots, Dunhai urged the EFCC to ensure due process and respect for the rights of arrested Chinese nationals.

In response, Olukoyede welcomed the proposal, describing Nigeria-China relations as one of mutual benefit and respect.

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He stressed the need to strengthen collaboration, including law enforcement cooperation, intelligence sharing, and capacity development.

“We will work on a memorandum of understanding to formalize the exchange of intelligence and ensure smooth cooperation between our agencies,” Olukoyede said.

Addressing concerns about detained Chinese nationals, he reassured the delegation of the EFCC’s commitment to due process.

“In the Lagos cybercrime investigation, some suspects didn’t come directly from China but from other South Asian countries. That’s why I instructed our team to notify your Embassy immediately after their arrest,” he noted.

He added that the EFCC upholds global best practices in handling foreign suspects, citing instances where detained Chinese nationals were provided with their native cuisine while in custody.

“Security is key to economic development, and both countries must work together to prevent crime. If Nigerians commit offenses in China, we expect similar cooperation from your government,” he added.