The glossy lifestyle of internet fraudsters, known in Nigeria as “yahoo yahoo,” often appears enticing. Flashy cars, designer clothes, and lavish spending paint a picture of effortless wealth.
However, Nigerian comedian Geh Geh, once entangled in this world, has laid bare its deceptive nature and emotional toll.
Speaking candidly on Nedu’s Honest Brunch podcast, Geh Geh shared how he was drawn into the scam culture, fueled by societal pressures and the lure of quick money.
“At first, it feels like you’ve struck gold,” he admitted. “But behind the scenes, it’s a chaotic hustle—sleepless nights, endless lies, and no real peace.”
The comedian broke down the structure of romance scams, a common tactic in the “yahoo yahoo” playbook. He described how fraudsters create fake online personas, targeting unsuspecting victims on platforms like Facebook.
“It’s all about trust,” he explained. “You start small—daily chats, making the person feel loved and valued. Then, when they’re hooked, the next person takes over, what we used to call the ‘shaman,’ who handles extracting money.”
Fraudsters often rely on fabricated identities, Geh Geh revealed. “They’ll claim to be soldiers stationed in war-torn regions like Afghanistan or pretend to be Nigerian royalty in distress. It’s all about creating stories people want to believe.”
Despite the initial appeal, Geh Geh quickly realized the dark side of this lifestyle. “The money isn’t as easy as people think. You’re constantly on edge, always looking over your shoulder. It’s harder than working a legitimate job,” he said.
For Geh Geh, comedy offered an escape. Turning away from scams, he focused on building an entertainment career, a decision that transformed his life.
“Quitting was the best thing I ever did,” he shared. “Comedy doesn’t just pay me more—it gives me a sense of purpose and the freedom to sleep at night without guilt.”
Today, Geh Geh uses his platform to educate others about the hidden struggles behind the “yahoo yahoo” lifestyle. “It’s a facade,” he emphasized. “People need to know the truth before they ruin their lives chasing a lie.”
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