Social media critic Daniel Regha has criticised Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over his recent remarks about internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys.
Obi, in a statement shared on his verified X page, said that some of Nigeria’s so-called Yahoo boys were actually “geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation.”
He made the comment while addressing youths at an event titled “Money Beyond Wealth” held at All Saints’ Cathedral, Onitsha.
Obi Calls for Youth Redirection
The former Anambra State governor explained that the event focused on tackling the greed for material possessions, which he described as a growing vice among young Nigerians.
He said he reminded the youths that real wealth was built on “integrity, character, and purpose,” not just money.
According to Obi, some young people engaging in online fraud possess remarkable creativity and courage that could drive innovation if properly channelled.
He said: “I told the youths that some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation.”
“Our challenge,” he added, “is to channel their energy from deception to productive enterprise.”
Daniel Regha Fires Back
However, Daniel Regha sharply disagreed with Obi’s position, saying it sounded like an attempt to excuse criminal behaviour.
In his words: “Peter Obi is justifying crime now? Keep in mind that Yahoo boys are no different from bandits, since both have destroyed countless lives.
“And with this statement of his, the government’s rehabilitation of bandits can also be excused. Absolutely not. Cybercrime should be condemned.”
Regha’s reaction has stirred intense debate online, with many Nigerians divided over Obi’s message.
While some praised Obi for seeing potential in misguided youths, others insisted that crime should never be rationalised.
