‘Yahoo Boys Are Geniuses Who Need Redirection, Not Condemnation’ — Peter Obi

FORMER Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said that some Nigerian internet fraudsters, popularly referred to as “Yahoo boys”, possess exceptional intelligence that can be channelled towards national development rather than condemned outrightly.

Speaking on Saturday in Onitsha, Anambra State, at the Golden Health Conference themed “Money Beyond Wealth”, Obi stated that many young people involved in online fraud exhibit rare creativity and boldness that could be redirected into productive ventures.

“Some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation. Their creativity and courage, if properly guided, can drive innovation and national development,” he said.

Obi, who returned early from a trip to the United Kingdom to attend the event, said the conference was significant because it addressed “a vice that has eroded our values — the greed for material possessions.”

He emphasised that Nigeria cannot achieve greatness while celebrating corruption and rewarding dishonesty.

“Money is necessary, but it is only a small part of real wealth,” he noted. “True wealth is built on integrity, character, and purpose. It uplifts society, promotes education, reduces poverty, and creates opportunities for others.”

The former Anambra State governor lamented that the reckless pursuit of wealth has severely damaged Nigeria’s moral fabric. “Leadership must lead by example, for a nation that rewards dishonesty cannot build integrity,” he said.

Obi urged young Nigerians to rediscover the dignity of labour, stressing that national progress comes “not by miracles but by men and women who think, work, and build.”

He further called for justice and fairness in governance, noting that development requires collective effort, devoid of ethnic or religious bias. “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,” he added.

Obi expressed appreciation to Bishop Owen Nwokolo of the Diocese on the Niger and commended the organisers for promoting discipline and value-based leadership among the youth.