Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has called for a more constructive approach to tackling internet fraud among Nigerian youths, saying that many so-called “Yahoo boys” are “misguided geniuses” who need redirection, not condemnation.
Obi made the remark while speaking at a youth empowerment summit in Lagos, where he emphasized that most young people involved in online fraud are intelligent but lack opportunities to channel their creativity positively.
According to him, rather than focusing only on arrests and punishment, the government should invest in digital skill training, mentorship, and innovation hubs that can transform their talents into legitimate enterprises.
“These young people are not fools; many of them are highly intelligent. They just need the right environment and guidance. What they lack is redirection, not intelligence,” Obi said.
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He added that the energy currently spent on illegal online activities could easily be used to build startups and drive technological advancement if properly supported.
“If we redirect that same brilliance toward tech innovation, digital marketing, and coding, Nigeria can produce global solutions instead of cybercrime,” he noted.
The former Anambra governor also urged leaders to create economic systems that encourage honesty and productivity rather than glorifying quick wealth.
“We cannot keep condemning the youth while the system fails to show them a better way,” Obi stated.
His comments have since sparked mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians praising his empathy and insight, while others argue that crime should never be excused, regardless of potential talent.