Table of Contents
- Lagos APC Criticism of Peter Obi
- Moral Reprehensibility of Comments
- Attention-Seeking Behavior
- Misleading Young Nigerians
- Commitment to Youth Empowerment
- Obi’s Remarks at Youth Conference
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, for his recent remarks that referred to Internet fraudsters, commonly known as “Yahoo boys,” as “geniuses” who merely require proper guidance.
In a statement released on Sunday by its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC characterized Obi’s comments as “morally reprehensible” and inappropriate for someone who has previously aspired to lead Nigeria.
Oladejo expressed disappointment and concern that a former state governor and presidential candidate would make statements that seem to trivialize criminal behavior in a society already struggling with moral decay.
“There is nothing genius about crime. Yahoo-Yahoo is a social tragedy, not a talent.
We are genuinely worried about Obi’s moral compass; how can someone who consistently denounces corruption also praise cybercrime? Such contradictions expose a troubling moral confusion that is unacceptable in leadership.”
The APC spokesperson also accused Obi of attempting to gain political relevance through controversial remarks, labeling his stance as a “reckless bid for attention,” Oladejo stated.
“His urgent desire for attention has replaced sensible leadership with thoughtless rhetoric. There should be limits to unchecked desperation,” he added.
Oladejo also claimed that Obi misled many young Nigerians during the 2023 elections through what he described as “propaganda, misinformation, and emotional manipulation.” He urged the LP candidate to apologize to the youth for his recent comments, warning that such language could foster moral indiscipline.
While reaffirming the APC’s commitment to youth empowerment and innovation, the Lagos chapter rejected any attempts to glamorize or justify cybercrime, insisting that leadership must be grounded in “values, integrity, and moral responsibility.”
It should be noted that Obi, while speaking to attendees at a youth conference in Onitsha on Saturday, stated that many Internet fraudsters possess creativity and intelligence that could be directed towards productive endeavors if properly guided.
He cautioned against the reckless pursuit of wealth, emphasizing that “money is merely a small part of true wealth,” and encouraged young people to prioritize character, diligence, and community development.
What did Peter Obi say about Internet fraudsters?
Peter Obi referred to Internet fraudsters, known as “Yahoo boys,” as “geniuses” who could be redirected toward more productive activities.
How did the Lagos APC respond to Obi's comments?
The Lagos APC criticized Obi's remarks as morally reprehensible and expressed concern over his ability to lead, highlighting contradictions in his stance on corruption and cybercrime.
What are the APC's views on youth empowerment?
The APC is committed to youth empowerment and innovation, emphasizing that leadership should be based on values, integrity, and moral responsibility.
