A man in his early 30s, Utibe Eteffia, has committed suicide as a result of a N2.5 million loss to internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo Boys.
The incident occurred over the weekend in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Eteffia, who lived on Akpakoruk Street, Atan Ofot, operated a Point of Sale (PoS) business near the NUJ State Council Secretariat.
Before his death, Utibe reportedly made several disturbing posts on social media, including images of lit candles and cryptic captions such as “Do you believe in reincarnation?” He also shared messages encouraging people to show love and support to others.
Neighbours revealed he had started a countdown, posting “27 days left,” while becoming increasingly reclusive.
He was said to have given away his iPhone and ATM PIN to his sister days before the act.
An acquaintance, Aniefiok Isang, said Utibe once came to his house seeking rat poison, which he later obtained from a chemist.
He then traveled to his village in Ini LGA, where he reportedly took the poison after attending church and spending time with relatives.
Family members found his lifeless body on the veranda the next morning. A search of his belongings yielded no clues, but reports suggest he was lured into an online scam involving cybercrime syndicates who allegedly initiated him into a cult-like Yahoo Plus group, worsening his mental state.
His death has sparked sadness and reflection in the community, with many calling for greater awareness and support for victims of financial fraud.
