Spirituality in Cybercrime (Yahoo Yahoo) Activities among Youths in South West Nigeria

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Abstract

This chapter explores the relevance and adoption of spirituality in cybercrime; the roles of spiritualists; experiences of self-confessed youths that are involved in ‘yahoo yahoo’ activities and the future intentions of youths to engage in cybercrime. This was with a view to providing a socio-cultural analysis of the influence of spirituality in cybercrime (‘yahoo yahoo’) activities among Nigerian youths. Vignette based focus group discussions were held with male and female youths (18-35 years), in-depth interviews with ‘yahoo yahoo’ youths and some spiritualists. Findings showed that spirituality attracts high cultural relevance in life achievements and the conduct of cybercrimes. Perceptions on youths’ involvement in cybercrime activities attracted mixed reactions. To the ‘Yahoo yahoo’ youths, they are playing a game, to other participants; ‘yahoo yahoo’ was a criminal act. Cybercrime among the youths have received the support of some spiritualists within a political economy that creates an enabling environment for cybercrimes and related activities. A few participants indicated future interests in cybercrime if their economic conditions remain unchanged or worsen. In conclusion, we argued that a holistic approach grounded in the cultural system would be more effective in re-orientating and empowering the youths to positively utilizes their internet skills. Thus, curbing cybercrimes would require a process that would not rely exclusively on legal and policing frameworks.