VeryDarkMan’s Comment About Bayelsa is the Height of Ignorance” — Hon. Wisdom Ikuli Fires Back

 

“VeryDarkMan’s Comment About Bayelsa is the Height of Ignorance” — Hon. Wisdom Ikuli Fires Back



By Prince Agbedeyi Odimientimi Desmond
Global Egberi Media International | July 1, 2025

In a strongly worded statement released on July 1st, 2025, social commentator and public affairs analyst, Hon. Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli, has taken a decisive swipe at controversial social media personality VeryDarkMan (VDM) over what he described as an “ignorant and baseless” remark labeling Bayelsa as the second most underdeveloped state in Nigeria.

Hon. Ikuli, a vocal advocate for the development of the Niger Delta region, described VDM’s comments as not only offensive but also reflective of a shallow understanding of Bayelsa’s socio-economic transformation in recent years.

“Ignorance Dressed as Advocacy”

“VDM who has not traveled beyond Yenagoa, the state capital, lacks the right to describe Bayelsa as the second most underdeveloped state in the country,” Ikuli asserted.

He questioned the metrics or yardsticks used by VDM to reach such a “hasty and senseless” conclusion, emphasizing that such sweeping generalizations from self-styled advocates only add noise to critical national conversations.

“It is sad that our society now glorifies and deifies self-acclaimed advocates and mouthpieces of the masses,” Ikuli stated.

Bayelsa's Developmental Strides: The Facts on Ground

Hon. Ikuli noted that had VDM ventured into areas like the New Yenagoa City, driven through the Glory Drive or visited the Igbogene–Bayelsa Palm Road, he would have been exposed to the visible infrastructural developments reshaping the state.

“In contrast, look at Rivers State,” Ikuli continued. “Till date, it still suffers the consequences of being a one-city state. Port Harcourt is overpopulated, and public infrastructure is overstretched — all due to poor development spread.”

He argued that Bayelsa is avoiding such pitfalls by decentralizing development, citing the vision of former Governor DSP Alamieyeseigha, who built Amassoma as a model town. Today, Amassoma thrives economically, thanks largely to the Niger Delta University (NDU).

Education as an Engine for Urban Growth

Hon. Ikuli further highlighted the economic transformation of Otuoke, due to the presence of the Federal University Otuoke (FUO). The resulting influx of students and professionals has spurred real estate, transportation, and commerce across surrounding towns like Imiringi, Elebele, Emeyal 1 & 2, Kolo 1, 2 & 3.

Other towns like Sagbama, Aleibiri, and Toru-Orua have also recorded significant growth due to institutions like the University of Africa, the Isaac Boro College of Education, and various polytechnics.

Governor Douye Diri: A Legacy in the Making

In a tone of admiration, Hon. Ikuli praised the incumbent administration of Governor Douye Diri, describing him as a “God-sent miracle governor” whose leadership is paving the way for new cities and economic hubs across the state. The governor’s work at Sampou with the Bayelsa Medical University (BMU) campus is cited as another example of forward-thinking governance.

“In the near future,” he said, “Bayelsa will boast multiple developed towns and cities just like Delta State.”

A History of Selflessness

Hon. Ikuli reminded Nigerians of the selfless disposition of Ijaw leaders historically, unlike others who sited institutions in their hometowns. He cited Navy Commander Alfred Diete-Spiff and Chief (Senator) Dr. Melford Okilo as patriots who prioritized regional development over personal aggrandizement.

“While others built universities in their villages, our leaders built cities that everyone could benefit from,” Ikuli emphasized.

Final Words: Focus on Progress, Not Distraction

In his closing remarks, Hon. Ikuli called on Bayelsans to ignore “senseless and distractive talks” and remain focused on building the New Bayelsa of their dreams. He expressed optimism that Governor Diri would “finish strong” and cement a legacy of equitable development across the state.

“Let us stop giving credence to those who speak just to trend. Let us instead honor those who act to transform,” he concluded.

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© 2025 – Global Egberi Media International
Published by Prince Agbedeyi Odimientimi Desmond

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