Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has described some internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, as “geniuses” who require proper guidance and mentorship rather than outright condemnation.
Speaking in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Saturday, Obi said many of these young Nigerians possess creativity and intelligence but are misdirected due to lack of opportunities and leadership.
He stressed that with the right support, their innovation and boldness could be harnessed to drive national growth and technological advancement.
“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,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra governor further emphasized that real wealth goes beyond material gain, insisting that true prosperity must uplift society through education, poverty reduction, and the creation of dignified opportunities.
“Real wealth uplifts both the individual and society, promotes education, reduces poverty, and creates opportunities for others to live dignified lives,” he added.
Obi’s remarks have since sparked online discussions, with many Nigerians supporting his call for skill reorientation and empowerment of the country’s tech-savvy youth population.
