“Tribalism Won’t Build a Nation”: VeryDarkMan Calls Out Imo State Governor Over Selective Reception of Super Falcons Players
Popular social media activist and commentator, VeryDarkMan, has sparked widespread conversation following his outspoken criticism of the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, for what he described as an act of tribal favoritism in hosting only the Igbo players of the Super Falcons, excluding the rest of the team that represented Nigeria at the international stage.
In a viral video circulating on social media, VeryDarkMan questioned the rationale behind Governor Uzodinma’s decision to honor just 11 players of Igbo origin, pointing out that a full football team consists of more than 11 individuals—including substitutes, coaching staff, and technical crew. “11 players are not a complete team. Reference to the united efforts of the goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie; the defenders, the midfielders, the striker, and those on the bench,” he emphasized,
Describing the gesture as “blatant tribalism”, VeryDarkMan expressed deep disappointment that no prominent Igbo voice or influencer spoke up against what he termed a discriminatory act. “Where were our so-called cultural advocates and Eastern celebrities when this happened? Silence in the face of tribalism is endorsement,” he said.
He further compared the incident with the backlash that followed the renaming of a bus stop in Lagos from “Charley Boy Bus Stop” to “Olamide Bus Stop”, which attracted widespread reactions and debates. “If we can protest a symbolic name change, how much more should we speak up against actions that actively promote division and exclusion?” he asked.
VeryDarkMan emphasized that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and selective recognition in national representation only serves to deepen cracks in the fragile unity of the country. “We are Nigerians before we are Igbos, Yorubas, or Hausas. We must start acting like it,” he declared.
The activist called on Governor Uzodinma to rise above tribal sentiments and issue a formal recognition or invitation to the full Super Falcons squad that represented the nation not just a segment defined by ethnicity. “Gov. Hope should stop promoting tribal bigotry and do the right thing. You are a governor of a state, but you are also a leader in a country desperately in need of unity,” he said.
He also took a moment to remind Nigerians of the beauty in the nation’s diverse cultures and traditions, urging citizens to respect leaders as sources of strength and pride. “We have a rich culture, yes, but it must be wielded with respect, not bias.
Normally the states will host their indigen in the team after Federal government hosting.But if the team decides to tour states with the cup, that is when state government can do something for the team collectively.