ACCRA, Oct 27 (The African Portal) – The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for the redirection rather than condemnation of Nigerian youths involved in online fraud, commonly referred to as “Yahoo boys,” describing many of them as “geniuses” whose creativity could be harnessed for national development.
In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle titled “Our Youths Need Redirection”, Obi said he made the comments during an engagement with young people in Onitsha, Anambra State. The event, themed “Money Beyond Wealth,” was organised at the invitation of the Archbishop of All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha.
Obi said he cut short a scheduled two-day meeting in the United Kingdom to attend the youth conference, which he described as an important conversation about the erosion of societal values and the growing obsession with material wealth.
“While money is important, it is only a fragment of true wealth, which rests on integrity, character, and purpose,” he wrote.
“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.”
The former Anambra State governor stressed that leadership must set an example by upholding honesty and integrity, warning that “a nation that rewards dishonesty cannot build integrity.”
He urged young Nigerians to “rediscover the dignity of labour and embrace hard work and innovation,” adding that national progress depends on citizens who “think, work, and build.”
Obi also called for unity across religious and ethnic lines, saying:
“No religion or tribe buys bread cheaper than another. Once we embrace justice, fairness, and merit, our nation’s greatness will naturally unfold.”
He expressed appreciation to Most Rev Dr Owen Nwokolo, Bishop of the Diocese on the Niger, for hosting the conference and commended organisers for promoting ethical leadership and moral renewal among the youth.
