The financial crisis in Europe deepened on news that the Nigerian Email Co-op was ceasing operations in Greece and Spain. Markets were spooked as prevalence of scam emails is seen as a crucial confidence indicator in an economy.
Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy conceded the news was a blow: “We tried to shore up Nigerian support by offering them free shares in Spanish banks – we even offered to pay the Western Union transfer fees – but they were adamant they were moving on”.
Contagion fears that other spammers will follow in exiting Greece and Spain have receded after prompt action by the European Central Bank in buying up millions of Viagra pills, Gucci handbags, and penis enlargers.