The attention of the Ekiti State Chapter of the City Boy Movement has been drawn to a dismissive social media post alleging, without evidence or basis, that 89% of members of our movement in Ekiti State are involved in cybercrime, popularly referred to as “Yahoo Boys and Girls.”
While the right to public commentary is an essential part of a free society, making sweeping and unsubstantiated allegations that seek to portray thousands of hardworking and politically engaged young people as criminals is irresponsible and unacceptable.
For the avoidance of doubt, the City Boy Movement in Ekiti State is a structured, purposeful and progressive organisation comprising young professionals, technology innovators, civil and public servants, artisans, students and grassroots organisers. Our members are actively engaged in legitimate businesses, professional pursuits, civic engagement and community development initiatives across the state.
Indeed, the Movement recently unveiled a strategic framework aimed at strengthening its grassroots structure, improving coordination and deepening engagement across the state in preparation for the forthcoming elections. The document reflects a deliberate and organised approach to political mobilisation, with emphasis on effective grassroots engagement, strategic communication, voter mobilisation and coordinated action towards securing electoral victory. This is the character of an organised youth movement committed to political participation, not the criminal stereotype being irresponsibly projected by its detractors.
Attempts to criminalise or discredit youth political participation through sweeping stereotypes do a serious disservice to the thousands of responsible young people in Ekiti who work every day to build dignified and productive livelihoods.
We therefore urge social media commentators to exercise responsibility and restraint in their public statements and to focus on constructive issues capable of contributing to the development and progress of Ekiti State, rather than making allegations that are unsupported by facts.
The Ekiti City Boy Movement remains focused on positive engagement, grassroots mobilisation, civic participation and supporting the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, in pursuit of sustainable development and shared prosperity.
Signed:
Alofe Ayodele Moses
Director, Media and Communications
City Boy Movement, Ekiti State Chapter