Akwa- Ibom Tragedy: Man Takes His Own Life After Being Scammed of ₦2.5 Million by Internet Fraudsters
A heartbreaking event has rocked the Ini Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, as a young Point-of-Sale (PoS) operator named Utibe Eteffia allegedly took his own life after losing ₦2.5 million to suspected internet scammers, commonly known as “Yahoo Boys.”
Utibe, believed to be in his early 30s, was a successful businessman based in Uyo, operating a PoS business. His family has reported that his life took a tragic turn when he became involved in a fraudulent scheme after being approached online by a group that introduced him to “Yahoo Plus,” a dangerous combination of online scams and occult practices presented as a quick path to wealth.
After being recruited and manipulated, Utibe relinquished all his savings — ₦2.5 million — to the fraudsters, which left him utterly devastated, both emotionally and financially.
In the days prior to this tragedy, Utibe displayed signs of severe psychological distress, becoming increasingly isolated, as confirmed by neighbors and friends. A concerning social media post featured a candle with a caption asking, “Do you believe in reincarnation?”
Witnesses noted that he visited a local pharmacy shortly before the incident, requesting rat poison under the guise of needing it for pest control. Although the pharmacist was initially hesitant, they eventually sold him the poison.
On the day of the tragedy, Utibe went back to his village in Ini. Family members described him as unusually quiet that day. After attending church, he visited an uncle to ask for financial help and received ₦10,000. When questioned about his well-being, he reportedly responded, “How much can ₦10,000 do?”
Later that night, after his family had gone to sleep, Utibe ingested the poison. His lifeless body was discovered on the family home’s porch the next morning.
His death has shocked the community, leading to mourning among relatives and calls from community leaders for increased awareness of mental health issues and the risks posed by online scams targeting vulnerable youth.
A grieving family member expressed the need for clarity about what transpired before proceeding with the burial, emphasizing their struggle to process this tragic event.
This incident highlights the profound emotional impact of cybercrime in Nigeria, particularly on young people facing economic difficulties. Community members are urging authorities to enhance measures against internet fraud and improve mental health support across the nation.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts, please seek help from mental health professionals or local support services immediately.
