Bayelsa on the Brink? Wisdom Ikuli, IYC Mount Pressure as ‘Free Kariyai’ Campaign Explodes
By Passman Akpos
The controversy surrounding the detention of Bayelsa activist Kariyai Daukoru has intensified, with prominent public commentator Most Senior Comrade Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli joining calls for compassion while the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Central Zone, prepares a peaceful protest to Government House urging Governor Douye Diri to intervene.
In a statement made available to Tarakirivoice on Tuesday, Ikuli expressed deep concern over the situations involving Kariyai Daukoru and Ebilatei Amabebe, describing their ordeals as heartbreaking and warning against what he called a growing culture of silence in the face of perceived injustice.
“My heart bleeds for Kariyai Daukoru and Ebilatei Amabebe,” Ikuli stated, adding that the future of the two young men appeared to be under serious threat.
He questioned the continued detention of Daukoru at the Kuje Correctional Centre, arguing that imprisonment should not be used as a means of resolving disputes or demonstrating influence and affluence.
According to Ikuli, he had quietly explored avenues for reconciliation behind the scenes but lamented that the matter had continued to escalate instead of being resolved through dialogue.
The activist also cautioned young people against celebrating the misfortune of others, warning that today’s spectator could become tomorrow’s victim if society remains indifferent to perceived injustice.
Drawing inspiration from the famous words of German pastor Martin Niemöller, Ikuli stressed that silence in the face of alleged injustice ultimately threatens everyone.
He further reminded Bayelsa youths that many successful people emerged from humble beginnings and urged them not to lose hope despite present challenges.
Ikuli maintained that speaking against perceived injustice remains a moral responsibility, even when such advocacy attracts criticism.
His intervention comes as the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Central Zone, led by Chairman Peres Ineife, announced plans for a peaceful protest to the Bayelsa State Government House immediately after Governor Douye Diri’s return.
According to Ineife, the demonstration is intended to appeal to the governor to facilitate an amicable, out-of-court resolution of the dispute involving Daukoru.
The organisers are demanding Daukoru’s release, the withdrawal of criminal charges against him, educational opportunities, employment support and compensation for the hardship they allege he has suffered.
However, the planned protest has generated mixed reactions.
While supporters argue that peaceful demonstrations are constitutionally protected and provide a legitimate avenue for expressing concerns, others have urged caution, noting that the criminal and civil cases remain before competent courts. They have advised that any public action should avoid creating the impression of attempting to influence ongoing judicial proceedings and instead encourage dialogue between the parties.
The legal dispute arose from allegations of criminal defamation and cyberbullying filed against Daukoru following a petition by Dr. Eruani Azibapu Godbless, President of Azikel Group. Daukoru has denied the allegations, insisting he committed no offence and alleging that the prosecution is connected to a separate civil action he instituted.
The matter remains before the courts, and no final judicial determination has been made. Under Nigerian law, all parties are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
