By Franca Ofili
The Advocacy for Positive Behavioural Patterns Initiative, an NGO, has called on stakeholders to promote ethical conduct, education and personal growth among individuals to discourage illicit wealth pursuit among young ones.
Mrs Stellamaris Isikwe, the initiative spokesperson, made the call in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.
Isikwe said that there was the urgent need to address the pervasive Impact of Illicit wealth pursuits among young women in Nigeria and for the youth to create a society rooted in positive values.
“We are gravely concerned about the escalating trend where young women enticed by the promise of opulence find themselves ensnared in relationships with individuals involved in illegal activities such as ‘yahoo yahoo’ or ‘yahoo plus’”, she said.
According to her, recent incidents underscore the alarming reality that many young women in pursuit of a luxurious lifestyle, unwittingly become victims of relationships built on questionable foundations.
Isikwe said that the key implication of the pervasive issue was that countless girls have lost their lives.
“Some are also emotionally traumatised, while some are facing severe legal consequences due to the illicit activities of their partners.
“We emphasise the pressing need for urgent intervention.
“We aim to raise awareness about the risks associated with pursuing material wealth at the expense of personal integrity.
“Our advocacy emphasises the importance of promoting values that prioritise education, self-reliance and ethical conduct over the fleeting allure of ill-gotten gains,” she said.
According to her, the stories emanating from these distressing situations highlight the critical need for comprehensive education and awareness programmes targeting young women.
Isikwe called on Nigerians to unite in creating an environment that would foster personal growth, values and resilience.
She noted that Nigerians can safeguard the aspirations and well-being of our young women to prevent further loss of lives associated with the alarming trend of illicit wealth pursuits. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
==========
Edited by Emmanuel Afonne
