Chief Yemi Elebuibon, a renowned traditionalist, speaks with Adeolu Adeyemo about the negative impact of internet fraud on the nation and emphasizes the need for effective law enforcement to curb the menace.
How would you describe internet fraudsters (Yahoo boys)?
Yahoo boys are nothing but thieves. They deceive people and steal their money through lies and manipulation. Some even impersonate women, making false promises they can’t fulfill. Essentially, Yahoo Yahoo is just another form of theft.
What about those who provide charms to aid their fraudulent activities?
Those who create charms for internet fraudsters are also engaging in fraudulent practices. There is nothing wrong with using divination to support a legitimate business, but when it is used for deception, it becomes criminal. Our forefathers always warned against using spiritual means for dishonest purposes. Unfortunately, some diviners may not even be aware that their clients are fraudsters, as these Yahoo boys often lie about their intentions. Regardless, aiding them in any way makes one equally complicit.
Why do you think internet fraud is on the rise among youths?
Weak law enforcement and a failing judicial system play a major role. If laws were strictly enforced, many would think twice before engaging in fraud. In Nigeria, we often hear about arrests, but many cases never see the light of day. This is a stark difference from other countries where criminals are swiftly prosecuted. Additionally, societal values have eroded. Many youths today are unwilling to work hard; they prefer quick money. On top of that, the government’s failure to provide an enabling environment worsens the situation.
What can the government do to address this problem?
Every year, funds are allocated to different sectors, yet their impact is rarely felt. Citizens also contribute to the problem by expecting the government to do everything for them. Many people today avoid hard work and seek shortcuts to wealth. To address this, the government must intensify efforts to educate and sensitize the youth. Other countries also face inflation, but they manage it better. Food security, for example, is crucial—yet we have abandoned farming. No matter the minimum wage, without food production, the cost of living will remain high.
Corruption is another major issue. Funds meant for public welfare are often diverted for personal gain. Until we hold our leaders accountable and stop celebrating mediocrity, nothing will change. It is absurd that a politician can dig a single borehole, organize a commissioning ceremony, and people would show up in matching outfits to praise him. This mindset needs to change if we truly want progress.
