Man Dies After Losing N2.5m To Yahoo Boys

A heartbreaking incident has shaken Ini Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, as a young Point-of-Sale (PoS) operator, Utibe Eteffia, has died by suicide after reportedly losing his life savings to internet fraudsters.

Eteffia, believed to be in his early 30s, was allegedly scammed out of ₦2.5 million by individuals known locally as Yahoo Boys. According to community members, he consumed a poisonous substance after expressing signs of emotional distress through cryptic posts on social media.

One of his final messages included a candle emoji alongside the question, “Do you believe in reincarnation?” He also urged others to support those around them and “be their brother’s keeper.”

Neighbors noted a marked change in his behavior prior to the tragedy. He became increasingly withdrawn, kept to himself, and often made long, late-night calls. A neighbor recounted how Utibe had asked for rat poison days before the incident under the guise of dealing with pests. He later went to a chemist to purchase the substance before traveling to his village.

Utibe’s life had been marked by challenges. Orphaned as a child, he was raised by his aunt and managed to complete his secondary education through family support. He later established a PoS business in Uyo with help from relatives and friends.

However, his involvement with individuals connected to the Yahoo-Plus culture—a combination of internet scams and ritualistic practices—appears to have deeply affected his mental health and outlook on life.

On the day of his death, Utibe returned to his hometown in Ini. He asked relatives about attending a church service and also requested money from his uncle, who gave him ₦10,000. Utibe reportedly replied, “How much can ₦10,000 do?”—a remark that is now seen as a final plea for help.

That evening, after church, he waited until others had gone to bed before taking the poison. His body was found lifeless the next morning on the veranda.

His grieving family has delayed burial plans, seeking clarity on what led to his final decision. “We want to understand why he chose this path before we proceed with the burial,” a relative said.

The tragedy has ignited discussions about the growing mental health crisis among Nigerian youth, exacerbated by economic pressures, the influence of cybercrime, and the lack of accessible support systems.