The Silent Struggle of Utibe Eteffia: When Cybercrime Steals More Than Just Money

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Life doesn’t always give people a fair shot. And for Utibe Eteffia, a young Nigerian man in his early 30s, the weight of life’s battles eventually became too much to carry.

Earlier this month, Utibe took his own life—just days after losing N2.5 million to online fraudsters known locally as Yahoo Boys. It’s a heartbreaking story, and one that shines a harsh light on cybercrime, mental health, and the silent pain so many carry behind closed doors.

🌍 Who Was Utibe?

Utibe wasn’t born into privilege. After losing both parents early in life, he was raised by an aunt who did her best to support him. He made it through secondary school and, with help from friends and family, started a small but important Point of Sale (PoS) business—an everyday lifeline in many Nigerian communities.

But the economy’s been tough, and the pressure to “make it” even tougher. Like many young people, Utibe went searching for a way to level up—and that’s when the wrong doors opened.

⚠️ Scammed and Sinking

Online, he was lured into a shady “Yahoo Plus” deal—a mix of internet fraud and occult rituals often disguised as a fast track to wealth. Instead of riches, Utibe lost everything. His entire N2.5 million savings, gone. Just like that!

The financial blow hit hard—but the emotional toll hit harder. According to friends and neighbors, Utibe changed. He became withdrawn, stayed indoors crying, and made odd posts on social media. One of them showed a burning candle, paired with the haunting words:
“Do you believe in reincarnation?”

He also urged people to “be their brother’s keeper.” In hindsight, it was a plea for help—one we didn’t hear loudly enough.

🧠 Mental Health: The Hidden Battle

Depression and emotional trauma don’t always wear obvious faces. Utibe asked a neighbor for rat poison, claiming he needed it for pests. But that was just a cover. He later bought the poison and traveled back to his hometown in Ini LGA, Akwa Ibom State.

There, he made one last attempt at seeking connection—asking his uncle for a loan of just N10,000. When he got it, he muttered, “What can N10,000 do?” That evening, he attended a quiet church service. Later that night, he drank the poison.

His body was discovered the next morning on the veranda.

🕊️ A Life Cut Short—and a Wake-Up Call for All of Us

Utibe's family is still trying to process the shock. “We won’t bury him yet,” one relative said. “Not until we know why he made such a difficult decision.”

But in many ways, we do know.

We know cybercrime is more than just a digital nuisance—it’s a deadly trap. We know people are suffering in silence, afraid to speak up. And we know there’s still too much stigma around mental health.

💡 So, What Can We Do?

Here’s what Utibe’s story can teach us:

1. Let’s Talk About Cybercrime

It’s time to stop romanticizing internet fraud. Scams don’t just hurt “the rich”—they destroy lives and communities. We need more awareness, stronger enforcement, and a culture that celebrates honest hustle over shortcuts.

2. Mental Health Is Health—Period

We’ve got to create safer spaces where people can talk about depression, anxiety, and pain. If you notice someone pulling away, crying often, or posting disturbing things online—check in. You might be the voice they need to hear.

3. Support Goes a Long Way

Sometimes all someone needs is a genuine listener or a little help to feel less alone. You don’t have to fix everything—just show up.

🧡 In Memory of Utibe…

May Utibe Eteffia rest in peace—and may his story not be in vain.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please seek help. There are hotlines, professionals, and communities ready to support you. You're not alone, even if it feels like it.

Let’s be kinder. Let’s be better. Let’s be our brothers’ keeper—just like Utibe asked us to be.

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