Daniel Regha queries VDM over N50m painting on wall of N250m renovated school funded by Burna Boy
By Ishaya Ibrahim
Social media commentator Daniel Regha has questioned activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) over the reported expenditure of ₦50 million on mural paintings at a ₦250 million school and clinic project funded by Nigerian singer Burna Boy in Rivers State.
Regha raised concerns over the cost of the artwork, which features Burna Boy, VDM and other members of the project team, arguing that the money could have been put to better use in improving the school’s facilities.
In a post on X, Regha criticised the decision to display the images of the singer and the activist prominently around the school, questioning whether the expenditure was justified.
He wrote: “VDM reportedly took about N50m out of the N250m provided by Burna to do unreasonab’e drawings, (mural painting to be exact) on the school project; And as if that’s not bad enough, he had the paintings of Burna, and himself repeatedly displayed around the school.”
The commentator further questioned whether the reported expenditure was consistent with the accountability VDM has often advocated for in his public engagements.
“Again, that’s N50m, so what makes him different from govt contractors and bad leaders who misuse public funds?” he asked.
Regha also argued that a commemorative plaque or statue would have been a more appropriate way to recognise Burna Boy’s contribution, rather than repeatedly displaying the images of the individuals involved in the project.
According to him, school premises should prioritise artwork that supports learning and inspires students rather than serving as a platform for personal glorification.
He also questioned whether the school met acceptable standards, challenging the description of the facility as a standard school and asking whether Burna Boy would allow his own child to attend it.
Beyond the Rivers State project, Regha called for greater transparency regarding other donations made by individuals, including music executive Don Jazzy, asking how such contributions had been spent and which projects they had funded.
Background
The controversy follows VDM’s unveiling of mural paintings at Odiokwu Community Secondary School in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, ahead of the commissioning of a school and clinic reportedly valued at ₦250 million.
On Friday, October 9, 2026, VDM shared a video showcasing the artwork on his Instagram page, disclosing that ₦50 million had been spent on the murals and graffiti.
The paintings feature Burna Boy, children, VDM and other members of the project team. VDM expressed satisfaction with the finished artwork, describing the expenditure as money well spent.
The project, located in Burna Boy’s hometown, was funded by the award-winning singer, with VDM supervising the initiative and Fego Works Limited handling the construction, according to media reports.
The facilities are scheduled for commissioning on Saturday, October 10, 2026, as part of an intervention intended to improve access to education and healthcare in the community.
The mural expenditure has, however, generated mixed reactions on social media. While some users have praised Burna Boy for supporting development in his hometown and commended VDM’s involvement, others have questioned the cost of the artwork and whether its design is appropriate for a school environment.
