Internet scammers known as “Yahoo Boys” are creative geniuses who may propel national progress if they are redirected, according to Peter Obi, the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the general election of 2023.
Speaking at the Golden Health Conference on Saturday at the Archbishop Patterson Auditorium, All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha, the former state lead representative of Anambra State said that the scammers needed to be redirected rather than condemned.
Speaking on the theme of “Money Beyond Wealth,” which focuses on tackling the decline of moral standards among young Nigerians, Obi emphasized that, with the right guidance, the bravery and inventiveness of Yahoo boys can be used to spur innovation and the advancement of the country.
“I told the youths that some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation,” Obi, who was the guest speaker at the event, 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 stated.
While equating the existing vices to those afflicting the political class, he issued a warning that Nigeria cannot achieve greatness while praising corruption and applauding dishonesty.
He also told the audience that “while money is necessary, it represents only a small part of true wealth, which,” he said, “rests on 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,” Obi continued.
