Bishop Ibro Zion Calls Out VDM, Says Your Charade Has Gone Too Far

Clergyman Bishop Ibro Zion has criticised social media activist Verydarkman (VDM) over his recent comments about Apostle Arome Osayi, accusing the activist of disrespecting the preacher and making inappropriate remarks about his appearance.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Zion expressed his concerns in a lengthy statement, acknowledging VDM’s previous advocacy on issues affecting Nigerians but arguing that his comments about Arome went beyond acceptable criticism.

Zion said VDM had shown concern for Nigerians on several occasions but accused him of displaying a lack of empathy and respect toward Arome. He argued that the preacher had made significant contributions through his ministry and should not have been subjected to what he described as mockery.

The clergyman also defended Arome’s professional background, stating that the preacher had previously held an executive position in Nigeria’s petrochemical industry before leaving the sector to pursue ministry. Zion used the information to challenge suggestions that Arome lacked an understanding of industrialisation and technological development.

He further defended Arome against comments concerning the preacher’s facial appearance. Zion said Arome had previously spoken publicly about challenges he experienced during childhood which, according to him, contributed to his physical appearance.

Zion argued that it was inappropriate for VDM to mock the preacher’s appearance or suggest that medical treatment abroad could simply resolve the issue. He maintained that criticism of Arome should be based on his statements and ideas rather than his physical features.

The clergyman also addressed Arome’s comments about Nigeria’s role in what he described as an end-time Christian revival. Zion said the preacher was expressing a religious viewpoint rather than claiming to speak on behalf of every Nigerian.

He referenced several Nigerian Christian ministers whose ministries have attracted followers beyond the country, including Pastor Jerry Eze, Apostle Joshua Selman, Pastor William Kumuyi, Apostle Johnson Suleman and Pastor Paul Enenche.

Zion also argued that churches and Christian organisations have contributed to Nigerian society through activities in education, healthcare, charity and entrepreneurship. He cited the activities of several prominent pastors while maintaining that religious organisations have played a significant role in areas of social development.

The clergyman said he had previously commended VDM for using his platform to advocate for Nigerians, including his appearance at a Nigerian Bar Association event where he addressed concerns about insecurity.

However, Zion said the activist’s remarks about Arome had changed his perception of the recent controversy. He urged VDM to exercise greater empathy and restraint when addressing sensitive matters involving individuals.

Zion concluded by criticising what he described as VDM’s approach to the controversy and offered a prayer concerning the activist’s comments about Arome’s appearance.

The disagreement comes amid an ongoing public exchange between VDM and supporters of Apostle Arome following the activist’s criticism of the preacher’s comments concerning Nigeria, technological development and the country’s purported role in Christian revival.