Yahoo Boys in trouble.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong directive to Nigerian banks, OPay, Palmpay, others on refunding fraud victims.

The new CBN guideline makes it mandatory for banks to speedily refund fraud victims within a specific timeline or risk huge fines.

VDM, Mr Jollof in hot water as NCAA demands details of aircraft fight.

Social media sensation, Martins Otse aka Verydarkman, and comedian, Freedom Atsepoyi aka Mr Jollof, could be in hot water with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA.

This comes after a video of the two men exchanging blows during a flight went viral on Monday morning.

VDM and Jollof have been involved in a heated exchange on social media in the past after the critic dragged the comedian’s wife into their drama, alleging that she sleeps with Yahoo boys.

But following the physical altercation on the flight, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, has now taken to X to demand details of the incident.

Achimugu quoted one of the clips and wrote: “If you are kind enough to provide the name of the airline in whose aircraft this incident occurred, and the date, it would help investigations.”

VDM and Jollof could be hit with sanctions like fines and flight bans if found guilty.

Yahoo Boys Are Geniuses Who Need Redirection – Peter Obi.

The former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the inordinate pursuit of wealth by internet fraudsters.

Addressing a gathering of young people during the Golden Health Conference held at the Archbishop Patterson Auditorium, All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha on Saturday, he described internet fraudsters popularly called Yahoo boys as “geniuses who need redirection.”

The conference, themed “Money Beyond Wealth,” brought together students, professionals, and youth leaders to discuss the moral, social, and economic dimensions of wealth creation.

Obi, while speaking during the event, stated that only money gotten through ethical means can be described as real wealth.

He said, “Money becomes real wealth only when it is earned through ethical means and used to uplift both the individual and society in an edifying manner.”

Obi observed that despite the fraudsters moral misdirection, many of them possess rare intelligence and creativity that, if properly guided, could drive innovation and national development.

“Looking at what they do, there is no doubt that many of them are geniuses. The challenge before us as a society is to redirect them, to channel their ingenuity into productive ventures that will not only dignify them but also edify society,” he said

Lamenting the state of moral decay in the country, Obi attributed much of it to leadership failure and the bad examples set by those in power.

"Yahoo Boys Have Killed Romance in Nigeria"— Rapper Erigga.

Nigerian rapper Erhiga Agarivbie, better known as Erigga, has sparked conversation online after claiming that internet fraudsters, popularly called Yahoo Boys, have “killed romance” in Nigeria.

Speaking in an interview with Yanga FM, the Warri-born artiste said the flashy lifestyle of Yahoo Boys has distorted relationships by creating unrealistic expectations among women. 

According to him, their habit of spending lavishly has made it difficult for genuine love to thrive.

“Yahoo boys don kill romance. Romance no longer exists. When last did you see two lovers holding hands together on the street? It’s been a long time. The problem now is that we are raising weak men who believe their entire value lies in their pockets,” he said.

Erigga lamented that relationships, once simple and heartfelt, have now become transactional. He recalled that romance used to be “affordable,” noting that couples once found joy in the little things.

“Back then, it used to be meat pie — very affordable — and women were appreciative. But men also share in the blame; weak men set the standards that women later raised,” he added.

The rapper’s comments have reignited debate about materialism, masculinity, and the state of modern relationships in Nigeria.

EFCC Raises Alarm as Yahoo Boys Turn to Human Rituals for Wealth.

EFCC has raised alarm over the growing trend of internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo boys” or “G-boys”, engaging in ritual activities, including human sacrifices and other supernatural practices, to enhance their fraudulent operations.

The anti-graft agency issued the warning in a post on X, stating, “G-boys are now going spiritual, involving themselves in rituals and making it the new usual. EFCC will come for any individual. Then, it won’t be business as usual.”

The post sparked mixed reactions on social media. A user, @Hajimuba504, wrote, “At this point EFCC needs a deliverance department to make Pastor join task force. Una go soon add ‘Chief Priest’ to recruitment list no worry.”

Another user, @Odenigbo511, criticised the agency’s priorities, saying, “EFCC, Our GDP was 800 Billion in 2014. Some people have looted it to 150 Billion in 2025 and it’s not yahoo boys, but you haven’t prosecuted anyone.”

Similarly, @Raypowerjustice commented, “Shameless criminal entity that can’t account for all the cars, phones, laptops, money and houses they seized. Where is Yahaya Bello? Politicians are your best friends, young boys are your enemies. You have resigned yet fake pastor Chairman.”

EFCC accused of targeting Yahoo boys while politicians go free.

A Nigerian man has sparked controversy online, claiming the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) disproportionately arrests internet fraudsters, while politicians largely go unpunished.

In a viral post, he alleged that EFCC officers seize phones, vehicles, and other valuables from “Yahoo boys,” yet fail to account for what happens to the items.

He specifically mentioned that EFCC officers allegedly raid hotels and homes, confiscating expensive possessions, but hinted that some of these items are shared among officials’ relatives rather than being properly documented.

The man also linked the EFCC chairman to the Redeemed Christian Church of God, questioning the perceived morality versus the agency’s actions.

The post has reignited debates on EFCC’s approach to law enforcement, with critics arguing that the commission focuses on small-time internet fraudsters while politically connected individuals often evade scrutiny.

Criticism and calls for accountability
Social media users quickly joined the conversation, weighing in on the alleged bias. Some commenters echoed claims that politicians are rarely investigated, with one user noting the ongoing use of cybercriminals by influential figures to launder money.

Others defended the EFCC chairman, suggesting he is “just a puppet” acting under higher authorities, implying systemic issues at the top rather than individual wrongdoing.

The post also drew sharp warnings from users urging not to drag Pastor Adeboye into the debate.

Accident: These Yahoo Yahoo boys do not care about another person on the road - Abdullahi Usman.

According to a report by the Punch on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, a devastating accident in Edo State has claimed three lives, highlighting ongoing road safety issues in southwestern Nigeria. The incident occurred Monday night near the Ogba River bridge in Oredo Local Government Area, where an SUV driver allegedly lost control and collided with a commercial motorcycle, killing the rider and both passengers instantly.

The tragedy sparked immediate protests from fellow commercial motorcycle operators, who expressed frustration over what they describe as reckless driving by certain motorists. One protester, Abdullahi Usman, voiced the community's anger, stating, "These Yahoo Yahoo boys do not care about another person on the road. The accident was very severe." The protesters specifically accused internet fraudsters of habitual dangerous driving.

In a separate incident on the same day, six people narrowly escaped serious injury in a collision along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway in Ogun State. The accident involved two vehicles, with preliminary reports indicating that a Lexus driver oversped before crashing into a Toyota Avensis from behind. Fortunately, all six adult males involved emerged without fatal injuries.

Authorities in both states have launched investigations into the respective incidents. The Edo State Police Command confirmed the fatal accident and assured the public that those responsible would be held accountable. Meanwhile, traffic officials in Ogun State quickly cleared the wreckage from the highway to prevent traffic congestion.

These incidents underscore persistent concerns about speeding and reckless driving on Nigerian roads. The accidents occurred despite recent warnings from the Federal Road Safety Corps about the dangers of excessive speed, particularly along major highways like the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway where similar fatal crashes have been reported in recent months.

EFCC Blames Yahoo Boys for Visa Woes.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned that the surge in internet fraud is leading to stricter visa restrictions for innocent Nigerians seeking to travel abroad.

Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede emphasized that crimes like cyber fraud and money laundering damage Nigeria’s global reputation and hinder economic development.

Key Points
EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede linked internet fraud to stricter visa restrictions.
He warned that "yahoo-yahoo" erodes Nigeria's international image.

The crime drains billions of naira from the national economy.
Olukoyede urged youths to channel their creativity into productive ventures.

He stated that "digital footprints never disappear" for those involved in fraud.

The commission is intensifying its crackdown on cybercrime.
Other agencies also raised concerns about drug abuse and pipeline vandalism.

Beyond arrests and convictions, the EFCC’s alert underscores how cybercrime inflicts collective punishment on innocent citizens and stains national integrity.

Yahoo boys worsening visa restrictions for Nigerians – EFCC.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has warned that the rising cases of internet fraud are worsening visa restrictions for innocent Nigerians abroad.

The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said fraudulent practices not only destroy the future of those involved but also tarnish Nigeria’s international image, resulting in stricter travel conditions for law-abiding citizens.

Olukoyede, who was represented by the Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Coker Oyegunle, gave the charge on Monday at an event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs.

His statement was contained in a release issued by the commission on Tuesday.

“The EFCC boss highlighted that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage cost Nigeria billions of naira annually, undermining national growth and depriving citizens of infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities.

“Beyond the economic damage, he pointed out that the crimes erode Nigeria’s international image and subject innocent Nigerians to stricter visa restrictions abroad,” the statement read.

He urged young people in the South-South and across the country to channel their energy into productive ventures such as digital innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry.

He was quoted as saying, “Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Easy come, easy go. Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ always end up losing their freedom, reputation, and future. The law is catching up with them and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t destroy your tomorrow with shortcuts today.”

Our Politicians Are The Reason Why Foreigners Don’t Respect Nigerians Not Yahoo Boys – Seun Kuti.

Afrobeats singer Seun Kuti has said that Nigeria’s poor image abroad is not caused by internet fraudsters, also known as Yahoo boys, but by the conduct of the nation’s political leaders.

Speaking during an interview on the Honest Bunch podcast, Kuti explained that the world does not judge any country by the actions of its worst citizens but rather by the behaviour of its most prominent figures.

Nigerians often accept a misleading narrative that internet fraudsters are to blame for the country’s negative reputation.

According to him, the reality is that global perception is shaped by how Nigeria’s leaders conduct themselves on the international stage.

Kuti argued that until politicians begin to act responsibly and uphold integrity, the nation will continue to struggle with respect from the global community.

He said: “Oh, because of Yahoo boys, they don’t respect Nigerians.

“This narrative we accept about our society is wrong. We know fully well that the only reason nobody respects Nigeria is because of our politicians.

“Nobody judges a country by the worst people in it. Every country in this world is judged by the behavior of the best people the most prominent people.

“It is when they see the behavior of our prominent people that they form their opinion about Nigeria.”

Why prosecuting Yahoo boys appears faster than politicians EFCC spokesman.

Nigerians have often accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of showing more speed and precision in prosecuting internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, compared to bringing politically exposed persons to justice.

But EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, dismissed these claims, saying the anti-graft agency applies the same level of commitment to all cases, whether cybercrime, contract fraud, or money laundering.

Speaking in a recent interview on Hard Facts with Nigeria Info FM, Oyewale denied that the EFCC treats politicians with kid gloves, insisting that delays in high-profile cases are largely due to the judicial process.

“As far as the criminal issues are concerned, and adjudication of cases in court and the operation of economic and financial crime, there are no low-hanging fruits; every crime is a crime,” he said.

Oyewale stressed that while internet fraud cases appear to move swiftly, trials involving politically exposed persons often require extensive preparation before charges are filed.

“Last year alone, five former governors were charged to court, five former ministers were charged to court. If you know what goes into the arraignment of one single politically exposed person, you’ll know that a lot of work has gone on.

“It’s the business of the court to determine the resolution of these cases, and if there’s a delay in the resolution, it should not be blamed on EFCC,” he explained.

He emphasised that the Commission’s mandate covers all financial crimes equally but pointed out that it is ultimately the courts, not the EFCC, that decide the pace and outcome of trials.

Yahoo Boys Discouraging Foreign Investors — EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has raised concern over the growing involvement of Nigerian youths in internet fr@ud, warning that it is d@maging the country’s reputation and discouraging foreign investment.

In a statement released by the EFCC on Monday, Olukoyede, speaking through the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC I, Effa I. Okim, said the widespread nature of online fr@ud among youths has become a national emb@rrassment.

“The menace of internet fr@ud among our youth is pervasive and it is a stain on us as a people and as a nation. They have embraced this crime to the detriment of their future and the image of the nation,” he stated during an event at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, Delta State.

Olukoyede outlined several consequences of youth involvement in cybercrime, including d@mage to Nigeria’s international reputation, loss of investor confidence, decline in foreign investment, stifling of youth creativity, and the collapse of local industries.

He urged young Nigerians to abandon internet fr@ud and channel their energy into positive and productive ventures, noting that they are talented, intelligent, and capable of competing globally.

"WE ARRESTED A 22-YEAR OLD WITH 5 BILLION TURNOVER IN JUST 18 MONTHS; HE HASN'T WORKED IN HIS LIFE"- EFCC

According to a report by Punch on Monday, June 16, 2025, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has raised alarm over the deepening criminal ties between internet fraudsters, popularly called Yahoo-Yahoo boys, and politically exposed persons.

Speaking during a media briefing on Monday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, Olukoyede said some of these fraudsters are now being used to launder stolen public funds.

According to him, the trend is no longer limited to online scams.

“Some of them launder money for politically exposed persons. Don’t just see them as yahoo-yahoo boys anymore; the traditional way of stealing money is not applicable anymore,” he said.

He revealed that politicians now use these young men to transfer stolen funds using crypto wallets, after which the money is moved abroad to acquire luxury items like cars and houses.

Olukoyede stated that many of the fraudsters are being sheltered in hotels by these corrupt individuals, where they are given access to stolen funds to facilitate illegal transactions.

He noted that this growing alliance is one of the most dangerous dimensions of financial crime in Nigeria.

Citing a specific case, the EFCC boss mentioned the arrest of a 22-year-old who had a staggering turnover of over N5 billion in just 18 months.


“We arrested a 22-year-old; he had a turnover of over N5 billion within 18 months. We discovered that he laundered money for politically exposed people. A boy who has never worked in his life,” he added.

Olukoyede said such cases show how deep corruption has spread, with fraudsters being used as tools to loot public funds.

He also warned that many of these young men are not only involved in online scams but have branched into more violent crimes.


Olukoyede questioned whether this was the kind of future Nigerians envisioned for the country.

He called for a collective response from all Nigerians to reject the glorification of internet fraud and hold accountable those who fuel it from behind the scenes, particularly in the political class.