Renowned Nigerian Catholic clergyman, Reverend Father
Chinenye Oluoma, has
strongly criticized Nigerian youths engaged in fraudulent
online activities, cautioning them about the potential dire outcomes of their
actions.
In a video shared on his official Facebook page during a
sermon on Tuesday morning, Fr. Oluoma expressed his dismay over internet
fraudsters who deceive innocent individuals into parting with their hard-earned
money. He suggested that it would be more justifiable if these fraudsters
directed their efforts towards politicians.
Fr. Oluoma conveyed that even though some musical artists
promote the practice of “Yahoo” (online fraud), such behavior cannot
be morally defended.
He articulated, “When the pursuit of wealth comes at the
expense of fellow human beings, it means sacrificing others for a treasure that
will ultimately prove worthless in your life. I find it difficult to comprehend
how those who engage in theft and deception become indignant when ministers
denounce such actions. ‘Yahoo’ refers to a group of individuals who seclude
themselves, exploiting the vulnerability of others through digital means, and
swindling away the fruits of their labor.”
He continued, “Consequently, these victims are left impoverished
after decades of hard work. Everything the victim has toiled for is stolen, and
they are left grappling with depression, hypertension, and heart attacks, while
the perpetrators live comfortably.”
Fr. Oluoma questioned the societal acceptance of musicians
glorifying such a lifestyle, emphasizing that such endorsement does not make
the unethical behavior any less problematic.
“If ‘Yahoo’ involves the deceitful extraction of
people’s well-earned finances, leaving them destitute and in some cases leading
to their tragic demise, how can one expect a positive outcome from such a
path?” he asked.
He further criticized those who perceive online fraud as a
legitimate source of income, highlighting the inherent contradiction of
considering theft as a legitimate means of livelihood. He warned individuals
involved in such activities that their actions are unlikely to lead to a
prosperous future.
For those engaged in online fraud, he offered a stern piece
of advice: “If you find yourself entangled in such pursuits, I urge you to
reconsider marriage. If you do marry and have children, they will inevitably
bear the consequences of your choices.”
Fr. Oluoma concluded his address with a thought-provoking
suggestion, “If you are determined to engage in fraudulent activities, why
not target corrupt politicians who amass ill-gotten wealth? Strangely, you
avoid targeting these figures and instead victimize honest, hardworking
individuals. Perhaps, on the final day, you will find yourself explaining your
actions to both God and your conscience.”
