Former presidential candidate Peter Obi told a youth convention in Onitsha that most internet fraudsters, or ‘Yahoo boys,’ possess genius-level creativity that requires redirection toward national development rather than outright condemnation.
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, sparked debate at a youth-led convention in Onitsha by stating that most internet fraudsters, popularly known as ‘Yahoo boys,’ are “geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation.”
Speaking as a guest at the Golden Health Conference, Obi argued that the fraudsters’ inherent talent, if “properly guided, can drive innovation and national development.” He cautioned that Nigeria “cannot attain greatness while celebrating corruption and rewarding dishonesty,” drawing a parallel between youth vices and the current political class.
Obi stressed that true wealth transcends money, resting instead on integrity, character, and purpose, stating, “Real wealth uplifts both the individual and society, promotes education, reduces poverty, and creates opportunities for others to live dignified lives.”
The former Anambra governor revealed he had cut short his travels to encourage youths, adding that the event “addressed a vice that has eroded our values, the greed for material possessions.” Concluding his address, Obi emphasized the need for national cohesion and merit, affirming: “Finally, I reminded everyone that no religion or tribe buys bread cheaper than another. Nigeria is blessed with abundant resources; what we lack is the will to do what is right. Once we embrace justice, fairness, and merit, our nation’s greatness will naturally unfold.”