Stop scammers in their tracks, here’s exactly how to get the EFCC to take action
That fraudster who scammed you could be behind bars in weeks. But only if you report them the right way.
Getting scammed hurts. Whether it’s a fake investment scheme, romance scam, or online fraud, you want justice. The good news? Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is ready to help, if you know how to reach them properly.
This guide shows you exactly how to report fraudsters to EFCC and maximize your chances of getting results.
Why Report to EFCC?
The EFCC isn’t just another government agency. They’re Nigeria’s main weapon against financial crime, recovering billions of naira annually and putting fraudsters behind bars. But they need your help to catch these criminals.
Every report you file:
Creates an official record of the crime
Helps EFCC track fraud patterns
Increases chances of recovering your money
Protects others from falling victim
Don’t let embarrassment stop you. Fraud victims come from all walks of life, and reporting is the first step to justice.
5 Ways to Report Fraudsters to EFCC
1. Submit a Written Petition (Most Effective)
This is the traditional method and often gets the fastest response, especially for serious cases.
Where to submit:
EFCC Headquarters: No. 15A, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos
Any EFCC zonal office nationwide (check their website for locations)
What to include in your petition:
Address it properly: “The Executive Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)”
Your details: Full name, address, phone number, and email
The fraudster’s information: Names (real or fake), phone numbers, bank accounts, social media handles, addresses—every detail matters
The story: Describe what happened chronologically. When did you first meet them? What promises did they make? How much money changed hands?
Evidence: Attach everything. Bank transfers, chat screenshots, emails, receipts, contracts, voice notes. Make copies—keep the originals.
What you want: State clearly that you want the EFCC to investigate and prosecute.
Pro tip: Type your petition, sign it, and make copies before submitting.
2. Email Your Report
For quick reporting or if you can’t visit an office physically.
Email address: info@efcc.gov.ng
Subject line: Make it clear and urgent (e.g., “URGENT: Investment Fraud Report – N2.5M Stolen”)
Email body: Use the same structure as a written petition. Attach all evidence as PDF or image files.
Response time: Typically 3-7 business days for acknowledgment.
3. Use the Eagle Eye App (Fastest for Online Fraud)
The EFCC’s official mobile app makes reporting incredibly easy.
How to use it:
Download “Eagle Eye EFCC” from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Register with your details
Click “Report a Crime”
Fill in the fraud details
Upload evidence directly from your phone
Submit and track your report
Best for: Yahoo yahoo scams, romance fraud, online investment schemes, and cryptocurrency scams.
4. Call the EFCC Hotlines
For urgent cases or if you need guidance before filing a formal report.
Hotlines:
0809 932 9999
0803 940 0000
When to call: If the fraud is ongoing, if you’re being threatened, or if you need advice on what evidence to gather.
5. Walk Into Any EFCC Office
Sometimes face-to-face reporting works best, especially for complex cases.
What to bring:
Valid ID card
All evidence (originals and copies)
Written statement of events
Bank statements showing fraudulent transactions
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (except public holidays)
What Evidence Do You Need?
The stronger your evidence, the faster EFCC can act. Gather these:
Financial proof: Bank transfer receipts, payment screenshots, withdrawal slips
Communication records: WhatsApp chats, SMS, emails, call logs (screenshot everything before they block you)
Identity information: Photos of the fraudster, social media profiles, business cards, letterheads
Witness information: Anyone else who dealt with the scammer or witnessed the fraud
Documents: Fake contracts, forged certificates, investment agreements
Digital trails: Website URLs, Bitcoin wallet addresses, payment links
After You Report: What Happens Next?
Once EFCC receives your petition, here’s the typical process:
Week 1-2: Your case gets assigned to an investigating officer
Week 2-4: Preliminary investigation begins. EFCC may contact you for clarification
1-3 months: Full investigation, including tracking bank accounts and suspects
3-6 months: If evidence is strong, the case goes to court
Timeline varies based on case complexity and evidence quality. Stay in touch with your assigned officer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t delay reporting. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to trace funds and catch suspects.
Don’t threaten the fraudster publicly. This alerts them to destroy evidence or flee.
Don’t report to multiple agencies simultaneously. Start with EFCC, then escalate if needed.
Don’t embellish the facts. Stick to the truth. False information can derail your case.
Don’t give up. Follow up regularly, but give investigators time to work.
Types of Fraud EFCC Handles
The commission investigates all financial crimes, including:
Advance fee fraud (419)
Internet fraud (Yahoo yahoo)
Romance scams
Investment and Ponzi schemes
Bank fraud and identity theft
Money laundering
Cybercrime
Oil and gas fraud
Contract scams
Cryptocurrency fraud
Your Rights as a Complainant
When you report to EFCC, you have the right to:
Confidentiality (your identity is protected)
Regular updates on your case
Professional treatment by investigators
Protection if you’re being threatened
Can You Recover Your Money?
Yes, but it’s not guaranteed. EFCC has recovered billions for fraud victims, but success depends on:
How quickly you reported
Whether the funds are still traceable
The cooperation of banks and other agencies
Even if full recovery isn’t possible, prosecution gives you closure and prevents others from being victimized.
What If EFCC Doesn’t Respond?
If you don’t hear back within 4 weeks:
Follow up with a phone call or visit
Send a reminder email referencing your original petition
Escalate to a senior officer
Consider filing a Freedom of Information (FOI) request
Take Action Today
Every day you delay is another day the fraudster uses to scam someone else or hide your money. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—report now with whatever evidence you have.
The EFCC is fighting fraud, but they need Nigerians like you to step forward. Your report could be the breakthrough that brings down an entire fraud network.
Remember: You’re not just seeking justice for yourself. You’re protecting the next potential victim.
