CAN Northern Chairman Issues Stern Warning Against Cybercrime Activities
The Northern Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. John Hayab, has delivered a powerful condemnation of internet fraudsters, popularly known as "Yahoo-boys," labeling their actions as outright theft. In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Hayab emphasized that ill-gotten money cannot lead to genuine wealth and called for a return to values of hard work and integrity among Nigerian youths.
Cybercrime as a Threat to National Future
Rev. Hayab expressed deep concern over the increasing rates of "Yahoo Yahoo" and "Yahoo-plus" fraud activities, warning that these practices pose significant dangers to the future of young Nigerians. He stated, "The Bible does not discourage money-making or wealth creation; however, it says that the love of money is the root of all evil." Highlighting the gravity of the situation, he added, "Ill-gotten money cannot make you rich. Those involved in cybercrime and ritual killing take money that does not belong to them and must desist from it."
The Christian leader criticized the tendency to use euphemistic language that downplays the severity of such acts, asserting that financial embezzlement is fundamentally no different from stealing. "When you steal money, you are a thief," he declared, stressing that this behavior is unacceptable and could transform young people into future terrors if left unchecked.
Call for Parental Guidance and Ethical Values
In his address, Hayab urged parents to take an active role in guiding their children toward ethical pathways. He advised them to teach the virtues of hard work, honesty, and integrity, which are essential for sustainable personal and national development. "Painful as it is, if they do that just to compete with others doing the same, then it is sad," he remarked, referring to the peer pressure that often drives youths into cybercrime.
This warning aligns with broader concerns raised by other Nigerian leaders. For instance, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has previously highlighted how Yahoo-boys activities bring national shame to Nigeria, damaging the country's global reputation and leading to increased suspicion of Nigerians abroad, particularly during immigration processes.
Broader Implications and Alternative Perspectives
The issue of cybercrime in Nigeria has sparked diverse reactions from various quarters. While figures like Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, acknowledge that some internet fraudsters possess gifted creativity that could be redirected toward innovation and national growth, he also warns against celebrating greed and rewarding dishonesty. Speaking at a youth conference in Onitsha, Obi emphasized the need for leaders to model integrity and for youths to rediscover the dignity of labor and hard work.
As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of youth unemployment and economic pressures, the call from religious and political leaders for a shift toward ethical practices becomes increasingly urgent. The debate continues on how best to address the root causes of cybercrime while harnessing the potential of young Nigerians for positive contributions to society.
