Bayelsa Comrade Family Threatens Peaceful Protest Over Azikel Aviation Scholarship Dispute as Azikel Group Defends Programme
By Passman Akpos
The lingering controversy surrounding the Azikel Aviation Training Scholarship Programme has taken a new turn as the Bayelsa Comrade Family has threatened to mobilise a peaceful mass protest in Yenagoa if urgent steps are not taken to resolve the dispute involving two beneficiaries, Mr. Kariyai Darakoru and Mr. Yebei Ebilate.
In a press statement signed by the Director General of Media and Publicity of the Bayelsa Comrade Family, Comrade Egain BelieveGod Ifiye, the organisation’s President General, Rt. Hon. Comr. Timila Austin Ayekite, expressed concern over what he described as the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the aviation scholarship initiative established by businessman and President of Azikel Group, Dr. Eruani Azibapu.
According to the group, the scholarship examination was conducted in March 2024, while beneficiaries were reportedly informed that the probation stage would begin in April 2024 and last about six months. However, the organisation alleged that the probation period was repeatedly extended, leaving the beneficiaries waiting for over sixteen months without a final resolution.
The Bayelsa Comrade Family stated that despite several letters, meetings, and appeals to the management of Azikel Group, the matter remained unresolved, prompting the affected beneficiaries to seek legal redress.
The organisation called on Dr. Eruani to embrace dialogue and reconciliation with the affected youths, insisting that no Bayelsa youth should face intimidation or victimisation for seeking clarification regarding a programme designed to empower young people.
The group further appealed to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri, traditional rulers, youth leaders, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to intervene and ensure justice, fairness, and peace.
It warned that if meaningful action is not taken, it would organise a peaceful protest across Yenagoa with demands including “Justice for Kariyai Darakoru,” “Justice for Yebei Ebilate,” and “Bayelsa Youths Deserve Justice, Not Intimidation.”
Azikel Group Responds
Reacting to the allegations, Azikel Group dismissed the claims made by Mr. Kariyai Darakoru, describing them as false, misleading, and currently the subject of litigation.
The company maintained that the aviation programme was a fully funded philanthropic initiative created by Dr. Eruani Azibapu to train qualified Bayelsa graduates in aviation careers abroad at no cost to participants.
According to the company, candidates were required to pass through three stages, including an in-house mentorship and character assessment programme before being recommended for overseas training.
Azikel Group claimed that Mr. Kariyai Darakoru received a monthly stipend of ₦205,200 during the mentorship period and was paid over ₦3.2 million throughout his participation.
The company alleged that Mr. Darakoru repeatedly failed to obtain the mandatory recommendation from expatriate supervisors due to issues relating to commitment, discipline, absenteeism, and conduct during the programme.
It further claimed that although Dr. Eruani extended Mr. Darakoru’s probation period twice in an effort to assist him, the required recommendation was still not secured.
Azikel Group also alleged that intelligence reports suggested Mr. Darakoru intended not to return to Nigeria after travelling abroad for training, prompting concerns within the organisation.
According to the company, Mr. Darakoru voluntarily resigned from the programme in July 2025 before subsequently filing a ₦1 billion civil lawsuit against Dr. Eruani and Azikel Group.
The organisation also accused him of engaging in defamatory publications and social media campaigns aimed at damaging the reputation of Dr. Eruani, stating that criminal defamation proceedings have also been initiated.
Company Defends Dr. Eruani’s Legacy
Azikel Group described Dr. Eruani Azibapu as a philanthropist and industrialist whose contributions to youth empowerment, education, employment, disaster relief, and industrial development in Bayelsa are well documented.
The company maintained that it remains committed to creating employment opportunities, empowering Bayelsa youths, and defending its reputation through lawful means.
Matter Before the Court
With both parties maintaining opposing positions, the dispute has now attracted widespread public attention and is reportedly before a court of competent jurisdiction.
Observers believe the outcome of the legal proceedings could have significant implications for youth empowerment initiatives, private scholarship programmes, and accountability in philanthropic partnerships within Bayelsa State.
Both the Bayelsa Comrade Family and Azikel Group have reiterated their commitment to pursuing their respective positions through lawful and peaceful means while the courts determine the issues in dispute.
