The Lagos chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has harshly condemned former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for describing internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, as “geniuses” who need better direction. The party described Obi’s remarks as “morally reprehensible” and criticized them for trivializing a serious social issue amidst Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to uphold moral values.
In a statement issued by APC spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the party accused Obi of seeking political relevance through reckless comments that could undermine Nigeria’s moral fabric.
“There’s nothing genius about crime,” Oladejo declared. “Yahoo Yahoo is a social tragedy, not a talent,” he added, emphasizing that criminality should never be excused or romanticized.
Oladejo further criticized Obi’s perceived moral contradictions, noting that the former presidential hopeful’s praise of Yahoo boys could encourage youth involvement in cybercrime.
“Obi’s statement glorifies fraudulent practices while condemning corruption and dishonesty — a contradiction that fosters moral confusion in leadership,” he said.
The party also forewarned that Obi’s comments could influence impressionable youths negatively.
The APC called on Obi to reconsider his stance, urging him to uphold moral responsibility rather than promote reckless speech that may weaken societal discipline.
While supporting youth empowerment and innovation, the APC reiterated that it would never endorse or justify cybercrime, reinforcing that internet fraud is a moral failure, not a sign of talent.
