Some ‘Yahoo Boys’ are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation: Obi

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said that many young Nigerians involved in internet fraud possess remarkable creativity that could be harnessed for national development if properly guided.

Speaking at the “Golden Health” conference held at the Archbishop Patterson Auditorium, All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi noted that “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 event, themed “Money Beyond Wealth,” was centred on promoting ethical leadership and moral renewal among Nigerian youths.

Obi explained that he cut short his two-day meeting in the United Kingdom to attend the event because it addressed a critical issue, the greed for material wealth that has eroded moral values in society.

He warned that Nigeria cannot progress while glorifying corruption and celebrating dishonesty, stressing that true wealth lies not in money but in integrity, character, and purpose.

“Real wealth uplifts both the individual and society, promotes education, reduces poverty, and creates opportunities for others to live dignified lives,” he said in a post on X.

Obi also lamented that the reckless pursuit of money has weakened Nigeria’s moral foundation, noting that no country can thrive when its leaders fail to lead with integrity.

“Leadership must lead by example, for a nation that rewards dishonesty cannot build integrity,” he stated.

The former Anambra governor urged Nigerian youths to embrace the dignity of labour and hard work, insisting that great nations are built by visionary men and women who dedicate themselves to thinking, working, and building, not waiting for miracles.

He further emphasized the need for justice, fairness, and inclusivity in governance, saying that national progress should be driven by a shared commitment rather than ethnic or religious sentiments.

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“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 also expressed appreciation to Bishop Owen Nwokolo of the Diocese on the Niger for his mentorship and commended the organisers for fostering discipline and value-based leadership among Nigerian youths.

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