Lere Olayinka, an aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to Peter Obi’s recent remark describing some internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, as “genuinely gifted individuals” who need redirection rather than condemnation.
Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, made the statement while addressing young people at an event in Onitsha, Anambra State. In his words, “Some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation.” He explained that many of them possess intelligence and creativity that, if properly guided, could contribute meaningfully to innovation and national development.
Reacting to the remark, Olayinka took to Facebook to question Obi’s sincerity, challenging him to match his words with action. He wrote: “How many Yahoo Boys has Peter Obi employed to work in his Bank and Next Cash and Carry?”
Olayinka’s post was widely interpreted as a sarcastic response, implying that if Obi truly believes Yahoo boys are “genuinely gifted,” he should engage them in his own businesses rather than making public statements about their potential.
Obi’s comment has sparked a wave of mixed reactions across the country. Supporters praised his viewpoint as a call for reform, arguing that instead of condemning misguided youths, Nigeria should create opportunities that redirect their talents toward productive innovation.
Critics, however, faulted the statement, warning that referring to internet fraudsters as “geniuses” could send a wrong moral message and appear to excuse criminal activity. View, More,
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