Dear Nigerian Youths: Don’t Envy Young Men Of Questionable Wealth -By Isaac Asabor

In today’s fast-paced, social media-driven society, the Nigerian youth is under immense pressure to “belong,” to be seen as successful, flashy, and upwardly mobile, often by any means necessary. From social gatherings to Instagram timelines, we are constantly exposed to images of other young people flaunting wealth: driving exotic cars, wearing designer clothes, popping bottles at high-end clubs, and living what appears to be the “soft life.” To the average young ones struggling to find their footing, these displays can be intoxicating. But here is a stark truth: Not all that glitters is gold.

It is becoming increasingly necessary to issue this warning: Do not be carried away by the flashy lifestyles some of your peers display, especially at parties and on social media. A disturbing number of these individuals are now being linked to heinous crimes that cut across ritual killings, kidnapping, and advance fee fraud, crimes that stain their souls and eventually ruin their lives.

Just few days ago, a chilling event from Enugu State has provided yet another tragic confirmation of this ugly reality. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) apprehended a notorious native doctor, Levi Obieze, also known by the disturbing alias “E de play, e de show”, while he was attempting to escape the country on a motorcycle through the Badagry-Seme border. Obieze had been declared wanted for ritual killings and kidnapping, including the abduction of a 13-year-old girl.

According to a statement released by the Service Pu blic Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, on behalf of the Comptroller General of NIS, Obieze was arrested based on credible intelligence. The real horror was uncovered in his compound in Umuojor village, Isiagu Community, Enugu State, where the decomposing corpses of two pregnant women were found in soak away pits.

The community was thrown into shock and deep grief. What many once regarded as a flamboyant and wealthy man, who was perhaps even admired or patronized for his “powers,” was in fact a cold-blooded criminal living off the blood of the innocent.

This case is not an isolated incident. It mirrors a growing trend across Nigeria where the pursuit of wealth by young people has veered into the grotesque. If this is not a wake-up call, what is?

This is what society does not tell you: wealth that is not built on honesty is a ticking time bomb. The young man spraying wads of naira notes at a wedding party might have committed unspeakable atrocities to get that money. That “big boy” driving a G-Wagon might be on the EFCC watch list. The truth is, many of these showy young people are not as clean as they look.

The cost of their so-called success is human lives, stolen futures, and irreparable damage to the fabric of our society. What is even more alarming is the normalization of this trend. Instead of questioning the source of sudden wealth, many celebrate it. Instead of condemning criminal behavior, many want to emulate it. This needs to stop.

To the young Nigerian still in school: face your books. You may feel like you are missing out, like the hustle is passing you by, but you are laying a foundation that will serve you for life. Education may not seem glamorous now, especially when you are struggling with fees or competing with classmates driving fancy cars. But the value of education cannot be overstated as it teaches discipline, exposes you to opportunities, and most importantly, helps you develop your mind.

Not everyone will be a banker or a doctor, but whatever you choose to be, let it be grounded in honesty and hard work. Learn skills. Build your intellect. Challenge yourself. Remember: time spent learning is never wasted.

To those who have graduated and are still seeking jobs: I understand your frustration. You did everything right. You went to school. You served the nation. You applied for countless jobs. And yet, nothing. Still, do not be tempted to take shortcuts.

Engage your hands while you wait. Learn a trade. Volunteer. Start something small. Network with purpose. Develop yourself. The journey may be slow, but remember: God’s time is the best. There are countless stories of people who waited, worked hard, and eventually broke through. Let their stories inspire you, not discourage you.

There is nothing wrong with humble beginnings. It is far better to start small and build legitimately than to start big and crash into disgrace. Ask yourself this: would you rather be envied today and jailed tomorrow, or ridiculed today and respected forever?

Please, do not fall for social media lies. Social media is the greatest illusionist of our time. People post only what they want you to see. The suffering is hidden behind filters. The guilt is masked with smiles. The crimes are veiled by borrowed or blood-soaked wealth.

Do not measure your life by someone else’s highlight reel. Your journey is yours. And it will unfold in due time. Real success does not need to be loud, it is quiet, steady, and rooted in purpose. Stop comparing your day one to someone’s day ten. Most of the so-called “ballers” online are either scammers, ritualists, or living on borrowed time.

As a final word, hear me, and choose integrity over influence. This is as the truth is bitter, but it must be told: not every rich young person is living right. Some are knee-deep in crimes that will eventually ruin their lives. Do not trade your peace, your soul, and your future for temporary applause.

The story of Levi Obieze is a cautionary tale. One minute he was a flamboyant herbalist, “e de play, e de show”, perhaps adored by some, and feared by others. The next minute, he is in chains, facing charges that will likely end his life as he knows it.

Let that story burn into your mind. Let it shape your choices. Let it remind you that glory obtained by evil means is only temporary. But dignity built on truth and perseverance is everlasting.

Stay grounded. Stay focused. Stay true. Not all that glitters is gold.