APC Slams Peter Obi Over Comment Calling Yahoo Boys ‘Geniuses’
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, for describing Internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, as “geniuses” who only need redirection.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC described Obi’s remark as “morally reprehensible” and “dangerous” for someone who once sought to lead Nigeria.
Oladejo said it was disappointing for a supposed leader to trivialise criminal behaviour in a nation striving to restore its moral values.
“There’s nothing genius about crime. Yahoo-Yahoo is a social tragedy, not a talent,” he said.
He added that Obi’s statement reflected “a profound moral confusion” and questioned his mental disposition, saying, “We are genuinely worried about Obi’s state of mind—one that glorifies fraudulent practices while condemning corruption and dishonesty in the same breath.”
The APC spokesperson accused the former Anambra State governor of desperation for political relevance, noting that his “so-called compassion for fraudsters” was misplaced.
“His desperation for attention has replaced reasoned leadership with reckless speech. There should be a limit to unbridled desperation,” Oladejo stated.
He further said Obi owed Nigerian youths an apology for “misleading them during the 2023 elections through propaganda, misinformation, and emotional manipulation,” urging him to desist from making statements that undermine moral discipline among young people.
While reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment and innovation, the Lagos APC rejected any attempt to romanticise or justify cybercrime, insisting that leadership must be built on values and integrity, not populism or social media appeal.
It would be recalled that Obi, during a youth conference in Onitsha on Saturday themed “Money Beyond Wealth,” said some Yahoo boys possess intelligence and creativity that could be redirected toward productive ventures if properly guided.
He also warned that the reckless pursuit of money could destroy both character and community, stressing that money is only a small part of true wealth.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
