The All Progressives Congress – Lagos State Chapter (Lagos APC) has strongly criticised former Peter Obi  presidential candidate of the Labour Party over his description of internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo boys”, as “geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation”

In a statement signed by the party’s spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC described the remarks as “obscene and morally reprehensible” and argued they trivialise criminality in a country still striving to rebuild its moral foundations.

What Peter Obi Said

At a youth conference in Onitsha, via his post on X (formerly Twitter), Peter Obi argued

“Some of our so called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation. Their creativity and courage, if properly guided, can drive innovation and national development.” According to  Daily Post

READ ALSO: Peter Obi: “Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation”

He emphasised that the real challenge lies in channeling the energy of these youths from deception to productive enterprise.

APC’s Concerns and Counter-Narrative

According to the Lagos APC, the core issue here is not innovation but the glorification of crime.

“There’s nothing genius about crime yahoo-yahoo is a social tragedy, not a talent,” the party’s statement declared. Trending News

The statement further argued that Obi’s remarks reflect a “profound moral confusion that has no place in leadership”. They warned about the danger of a public figure appearing to condone fraudulent practices under the guise of redirection.

The Lagos APC reaffirmed its support for youth empowerment, but insisted this must happen through legitimate channels, not by glossing over wrongdoing.

Their statement referenced initiatives under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration (such as the Three Million Technical Talent Programme) as examples of how youthful potential can be harnessed lawfully. According to TVC News

They maintained that any attempt to excuse cyber-fraud in the name of nurturing “talent” sets a dangerous precedent.

Political Stakes and Public Reaction

Observers note that the controversy arises partly because of the proximity to the next electoral cycle and the heightened sensitivity around issues of youth, employment, and morality in Nigeria’s politics.

The discourse touches on how politicians speak to disenfranchised youths, whether they offer empowerment or rhetoric that may be interpreted as condoning illicit activity.

In the words of Seye Oladejo

“Our youths deserve mentorship, not manipulation; inspiration, not incitement.”

The Lagos APC’s rebuke serves as a reminder of the thin line between recognising youthful ingenuity and inadvertently celebrating criminality.

As Nigeria navigates youth unemployment, digital transformation and moral renewal, leaders’ words matter  and as this episode shows, can spark immediate backlash.