The All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, for his recent remarks regarding Nigerian youths. Obi had referred to a group of youths as “Yahoo boys” during a campaign speech, a comment that sparked widespread backlash across the political landscape. The APC condemned Obi’s statement, labeling it as derogatory and an unfair generalization of Nigerian youth.
In a statement released by the party’s spokesperson, the APC argued that such a remark undermines the efforts of millions of young Nigerians striving for legitimate success in various fields. The APC also accused Obi of playing divisive politics and attempting to stereotype a whole generation based on the actions of a few individuals engaged in illegal activities.
The Labour Party, on the other hand, defended Obi, asserting that his comment was meant to highlight the dangers of internet fraud and other vices affecting the youth. The party argued that Obi’s intention was not to disparage young Nigerians, but rather to address the issue of cybercrime and its impact on the country’s image internationally.
Despite this defense, the APC maintained that Obi’s words were harmful and could potentially deepen the divide between the youth and leadership. The APC also emphasized that instead of generalizing, there should be a focus on creating opportunities for the youth to thrive in a positive and empowering environment.
The political tension surrounding Obi’s statement highlights the growing political rivalry in the lead-up to the 2025 elections, with both major parties vying for the support of young voters who represent a significant portion of the electorate. The incident has ignited a broader debate about how politicians should address sensitive social issues without alienating potential supporters.
