Economic and Financial Crime Commission and Cybercrime Management in Rivers State, 2014-2024

Onyenkwere; Victor; Egobueze Anthony; Ph.D; Amadi; Ethel Innocent Ph.D

doi:10.56201/ijssmr.vol.12no7.2026.pg220.241

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Economic and Financial Crime Commission and Cybercrime Management in Rivers State, 2014-2024

Onyenkwere, Victor, Egobueze Anthony, Ph.D, Amadi, Ethel Innocent Ph.D

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in managing cybercrime in Rivers State between 2014 and 2024. The study was anchored on Structural Functionalist Theory and Space Transition Theory to explain institutional performance and cyber-enabled criminal behaviour. A descriptive survey design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to respondents across selected local government areas and in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders, including EFCC personnel, Nigeria Police officers, ICPC officials, parents, and youths. Secondary data were sourced from official reports, books, journal articles, and newspapers. The findings revealed that youth involvement in cybercrime is driven by multiple factors, including unemployment, peer influence, unrestricted internet access, widespread use of digital devices, and weak parental supervision. Although the EFCC has strengthened its investigative and enforcement capabilities, its effectiveness is constrained by technological, institutional, and socio-economic challenges that limit its capacity to combat cybercrime effectively in Rivers State. The study concludes that addressing cybercrime requires not only stronger law enforcement but also coordinated socio-economic interventions involving government, communities, families, and relevant institutions. The study recommends increased investment in digital forensic capabilities, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, sustained public awareness campaigns, youth employment and entrepreneurship programmes, digital skills development initiatives, and strengthened parental and community support systems to reduce the vulnerability of young people to cybercrime.

Keywords

Economic and Financial Crimes Commissioncybercrimecybercrime managementRivers Stateyouthlaw enforcement.

References

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Economic and Financial Crime Commission and Cybercrime Management in Rivers State, 2014-2024

Abstract

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