Social media activist Verydarkman has criticised a recent preaching by cleric Osayi Arome, arguing that an excessive focus on prayer and religious activities could discourage Nigerians from pursuing innovation, creativity and practical solutions to the country’s challenges.

Verydarkman was reacting to Arome’s remarks about Nigeria’s supposed calling to experience a religious revival. He argued that while faith remains important to many Nigerians, the country also needs greater emphasis on science, technology, creativity and problem-solving.

Verydarkman questions reliance on prayer

According to the activist, excessive dependence on divine intervention could discourage people from making practical efforts to address societal problems.

He said:

“It is this kind of preaching that put Nigeria where it is today. The church and the mosque have contributed to why we are still laid back as a nation. The people that are meant to be innovative and creative are praying every day for a miracle.”

Verydarkman further argued that Nigerians possess the intellectual ability to develop innovative solutions comparable to those seen in technologically advanced countries.

He questioned why Nigerians should admire technological achievements abroad without applying similar efforts to develop local solutions.

“These nations that we look up to have the same brain like us. But instead of us to use our own brains, we’ll go to church.”

Activist accuses cleric of prioritising religious contributions

Verydarkman also criticised what he described as an excessive emphasis on religious activities and financial contributions.

He accused Arome of encouraging Nigerians to focus on offerings and tithes rather than investing their resources and abilities in innovation and development.

“That is why morons like this… I’ll call him a moron, can use you people. This is what he is saying to you because he wants you to come and drop offering and tithes, let his own business be moving.”

Verydarkman defends technological innovation

Addressing Arome directly, Verydarkman questioned the cleric’s position on the idea of a national revival and his reported criticism of discussions surrounding technological developments in other countries.

“Osayi Arome, oga sir, you said the calling of Nigeria is revival, are you not mad? That they should not be talking about Nigeria and showing engines. So na we you dey throw sub.”

He also defended Nigerians who travel abroad to learn about technological advancements and share what they have seen with people back home.

According to him, efforts to expose Nigerians to new technologies and bring technical expertise into the country should be encouraged as part of the process of national development.

“We wey dey travel dey show Nigerians say this is innovation and what creativity has done for their nation, we wey dey sponsor people come China make them come build Nigeria, we no know wetin we dey do…..”

Verydarkman’s comments have generated discussion about the balance between religious faith and practical action, particularly regarding the role of innovation, technology and education in Nigeria’s development.

AB