Verydarkman Sparks Outrage After Calling Benue Nigeria’s Most Underdeveloped State
Controversial social media personality, Verydarkman, has drawn heavy criticism online after branding Benue State as the most underdeveloped place he has visited in Nigeria. In a now-viral video shared after his recent visit, the influencer compared the state’s condition to being stuck in the year 1940, citing alarming levels of infrastructural decay and insecurity.
“Benue is still in the year 1940. It is the most underdeveloped state I have ever been to,” he said in the clip, sparking an immediate wave of reactions on social media.
According to him, Benue’s poor road network and high levels of insecurity have made it nearly impossible for investment or meaningful development to thrive in the region. He warned that until these issues are addressed, the state would remain unattractive to both local and foreign investors.
“Investors can’t come because of bad roads and insecurity,” he stated. “I’m currently drilling a borehole in Yelwata, but the people can’t continue the work because they are afraid of being killed.”
His comments have been met with mixed reactions online. While some agree that Benue faces serious development challenges, others accused Verydarkman of exaggeration and insensitivity, especially given the efforts of the people and state government to improve infrastructure under difficult conditions.
Benue State, often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has long battled issues of insecurity due to farmer-herder conflicts, as well as limited access to federal infrastructure. However, critics argue that publicly shaming the state does little to help and may instead discourage potential development support.
Some users called on influencers to highlight problems more constructively, pointing out that grassroots projects—like the borehole Verydarkman mentioned—could serve as models for positive change when framed properly.
Nonetheless, the video has refocused attention on the state of development in Benue, with residents urging the federal and state governments to do more in terms of infrastructure investment, road rehabilitation, and security enhancement.
As the debate continues, many Nigerians are asking whether bold social commentary, like that of Verydarkman, should come with more responsibility and deeper engagement with the communities affected.