Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has claimed that there are more “yahoo boys” in government than there are on the streets.
Speaking at the 4th graduation ceremony of Nexford University on Saturday, Obi described Nigeria as a “crime scene” and emphasized the need for effective leadership to address the country’s problems. He urged the graduates to be agents of positive change in their communities.
“When we talk about vices, don’t just focus on the ‘yahoo boys’ on the streets,” Obi stated. “The reality is that there are more ‘yahoo boys’ in government than outside, as we’ve turned the whole country into a crime scene, with theft happening everywhere.”
Obi highlighted the significance of character and integrity in leadership, stressing that building a better society requires strong moral values and the courage to do what is right.
“It’s not rocket science, but it’s not easy. It’s about having a solid character and resisting the temptation to do wrong,” he said. “You have gained knowledge use it to bring about change. You are the victims of a system where past generations failed to do the right thing, and now you’re facing the consequences.”
Also addressing the graduates, Oby Ezekwesili, former minister of education, spoke on the importance of service and leadership. “Service is the highest form of leadership,” she remarked.
“View this graduation as a chance to serve—whether in your careers or for the nation. The world of work today is vastly different from the past, and you must master it.”