EFCC Raises Alarm Over ₦162bn Crypto and ₦18.7bn Scam Flows Through Banks, Fintechs

EFCC Flags Massive Crypto and Scam Transactions Linked to Banks and Fintechs


Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has raised serious concerns over the role of some financial institutions in facilitating questionable financial flows within the country.


According to the commission, investigations have revealed that banks, fintech companies, and microfinance institutions enabled the movement of about ₦162 billion linked to cryptocurrency transactions, alongside ₦18.7 billion connected to suspected scam activities.



EFCC officials disclosed that weaknesses in compliance systems allowed large volumes of funds to move through the financial system without proper scrutiny. In several cases, transactions were processed without adequate Know Your Customer (KYC) checks or effective monitoring, creating loopholes exploited by fraudsters.


The commission noted that some accounts used for these transactions showed unusual patterns, including rapid inflows and outflows, multiple linked accounts, and limited customer verification.



The findings have sparked concern over the effectiveness of internal controls within parts of Nigeria’s financial sector. The EFCC warned that failure to enforce strict due diligence not only exposes institutions to criminal abuse but also undermines trust in the financial system.


While cryptocurrency itself is not illegal, the commission stressed that poor oversight can make digital assets attractive tools for money laundering, online fraud, and other financial crimes.



The anti-graft agency made it clear that financial institutions found to have deliberately ignored red flags or compromised compliance standards could face investigations and possible sanctions. 

     You can also read: How to Protect Your WhatsApp, Gmail, and Bank Apps From Hackers: https://everydaystorynetwork.blogspot.com/2026/01/how-to-protect-your-whatsapp-gmail-and.html




The EFCC also urged regulators and financial service providers to strengthen collaboration, improve transaction monitoring systems, and ensure that emerging financial technologies do not become safe havens for criminal activity.



This development highlights the growing challenge of regulating fast-evolving digital finance in Nigeria. As fintech adoption and cryptocurrency use expand, experts say stronger oversight and accountability will be critical to protecting consumers and maintaining financial stability.


The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to tracking illicit financial flows and holding both individuals and institutions accountable where breaches are established.

Comments

Trending on EverydayStoryNetwork

15 Legit Remote Jobs Nigerians Can Do With Only a Smartphone (Earn Locally & Internationally)

Daily Exercises Nigerians Should Not Neglect in the Age of Junk Food and Sedentary Living

How to Create an Affiliate Link: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

NDLEA Destroys 4.6 Tonnes of Suspected Cannabis in Edo Forests

NIS Releases Updated Guide for Contactless Passport Renewal Abroad for Nigerians in Diaspora

Sen. Datti Baba-Ahmed: Defeating Tinubu Won’t Happen in Court – 2027 Election Warning

Delta Woman Allegedly Kills Husband, His Side Chick, and Neighbor in Ughelli

Legal Ways Young Nigerians Are Making Money Without Leaving the Country

Super Eagles Arrive in Rabat Ahead of High-Stakes Clash With Morocco

Mob Beats Suspected Armed Robber Found With Gun in Enugu, Police Rescue Him From Death