Peter Obi: Some Yahoo Boys Are Geniuses Who Need Redirection, Not Condemnation

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for a shift in how Nigeria views its so-called “Yahoo boys,” arguing that many of them possess extraordinary intelligence that could be redirected toward productive innovation and national growth.

In a post titled “Our Youths Need Redirection” shared on his verified X handle, Obi reflected on a youth engagement he attended at the invitation of the Archbishop of All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha. The event, themed “Money Beyond Wealth,” was held at the Archbishop Patterson Auditorium and focused on restoring moral values among young people.

Obi revealed that he had cut short a scheduled two-day meeting in the United Kingdom to speak at the conference, underscoring the importance he places on youth development.

“I reminded our young people that while money is important, it is only a fragment of true wealth, which rests on integrity, character, and purpose,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor expressed concern that greed for material possessions has eroded the moral fabric of society. According to him, true wealth should empower individuals, promote education, reduce poverty, and create opportunities for others.

“I told the youths that some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation,” Obi stated. “Their creativity and courage, if properly guided, can drive innovation and national development. Our challenge is to channel their energy from deception to productive enterprise.”

Obi’s comments come amid growing public discourse on youth unemployment and the rise of cybercrime in Nigeria, with many experts urging the government to invest more in tech education and digital entrepreneurship as alternatives to illicit online activities.