“Russia Protects Its Own, But Nigeria Hunts Its Own” — Nigerians Question Government’s Motives Over Crackdown on Internet Fraudsters

A heated debate has erupted online after Nigerians compared the government’s harsh stance on internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo Boys,” with how countries like Russia reportedly handle similar crimes committed by their citizens.

Many Nigerians argue that while Russia allegedly houses several successful hackers and cybercriminals, the Russian government tends to shield its citizens from international exposure and humiliation — a sharp contrast to Nigeria’s aggressive public crackdowns and media trials.

“Russia houses more successful Yahoo boys who are Russians, but you will never hear that the Russian government is cracking down on them. Instead, they protect them,” a viral post read.

This has sparked a national conversation on whether the Nigerian government truly prioritizes the welfare and global image of its citizens, or whether it is more concerned with appeasing foreign powers and projecting compliance at the expense of Nigerians.

Critics say that while fraud and cybercrime must not be condoned, the broader issue lies in the government’s failure to create opportunities and digital pathways for the country’s talented but underemployed youth — many of whom end up in illegal online ventures out of desperation.

Some also called for a more balanced approach that focuses on redirection, rehabilitation, and innovation, rather than humiliation and destruction of potential.

“Is the Nigerian government after the interest of her citizens or that of other countries?” many have asked, reigniting discussions around economic hardship, youth empowerment, and the ethics of state loyalty.