During a recent address at Johns Hopkins University in Washington, D.C., former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi expressed concern over the state of political engagement among Nigerian youths. He alleged that some politicians are paying young Nigerians as little as ₦20,000 to ₦40,000 monthly to insult and attack advocates of good governance on social media platforms.​

Obi described this practice as both disheartening and ironic, noting that the very individuals working against reform efforts are the ones who stand to benefit most from a more accountable and transparent government. He emphasized the need for a major political reorientation among Nigerian youths, urging them to resist being used as tools by corrupt political actors. "We must move away from politics driven by money and manipulation. Our youths must be empowered with knowledge, not stipends to insult those seeking change," he added.

Obi's comments come amid growing concerns over misinformation and online harassment in Nigeria’s digital political space, especially targeting reform-minded voices and opposition figures.

The issue has sparked discussions on social media, with many users sharing clips of Obi's speech and expressing their views on the matter. ​

This development highlights the challenges facing Nigeria's democratic process, particularly the influence of money in politics and the role of social media in shaping public opinion.