The Northern Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. John Hayab, has cautioned young Nigerians against engaging in cybercrime and money-making rituals, stressing that wealth obtained through illicit means brings no true prosperity.
Hayab issued the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday, expressing concern over the rising trend of youth involvement in crimes popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo” and “Yahoo-plus.”
“The Bible does not condemn wealth creation, but it warns that the love of money is the root of all evil,” he said. “Ill-gotten wealth cannot make anyone truly rich. Those involved in cybercrime and ritual practices must desist immediately.”
The cleric condemned the mindset of youths who resort to such acts to keep up with peers, describing it as both “sad and dangerous.” He warned that using deceptive terms to describe these crimes, such as calling them “financial embezzlement,” downplays the severity of stealing and perpetuates lawlessness.
“When you steal or kill to gain money, you lose your humanity and peace,” Hayab said. He highlighted the broader social implications, noting that many perpetrators abduct young girls for criminal activities or rituals, further threatening societal safety.
Hayab linked the rise in youth crime to the decline in parental discipline, saying some parents even encourage or boast about their children’s criminal exploits. “Moral decadence has eaten deep into society,” he said. “If we ignore this trend, tomorrow’s leaders may be corrupt individuals using ill-gotten wealth to gain power.”
Urging parents to instill honesty, hard work, and integrity in their children, Hayab said CAN and the Global Peace Foundation, where he serves as Country Director, are actively promoting youth development. The foundation focuses on girl-child education to nurture responsible future mothers who can raise disciplined children.
“We mentor girls to complete their education and grow into responsible adults,” he said. “Without this guidance, they may fall prey to the so-called ‘Yahoo boys,’ which is a tragedy for society.”
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