Samson Itonyo, a graduate of Niger Delta University (NDU), has emerged as the champion of the Bayelsa Karaoke Singing Competition Season 4. Performing under the stage name STARR, Itonyo captivated the audience with a powerful rendition of Jon Ogah’s hit song "Uncle Suru" during the grand finale held at the Banquet Hall in Yenagoa over the weekend. His victory earned him a N1 million cash prize and a one-year recording contract, solidifying his place as one of Bayelsa's emerging music talents.
The competition, which spanned eight weeks under the theme 'Challenge for Prosperity', attracted 86 applicants, with 36 contestants making it through to the final rounds. The runner-up, Oporoma-born Kekebou Dennis Believe-God, also known as DEN KAY, received N600,000, while Ruth Olu Sunday, stage name RUTHNEY, from Ogbia, claimed third place and a cash prize of N400,000.
The event’s initiator, Joseph Emarada (MC Okpeke), Senior Special Assistant to Governor Douye Diri on Entertainment, praised the Governor for his support in funding the project and raising the prize money to N1 million. Emarada highlighted the platform's role in nurturing young musical talents, giving them the opportunity to showcase their skills to a wider audience.
In a message delivered by the Commissioner for Tourism Development, Mr. John Alah, Governor Diri reiterated his administration's commitment to empowering young people through entertainment and tourism. He emphasized that the competition aims to curb social vices and boost the state's creative industry, with plans to continue the annual event in future editions.
Dignitaries present at the event included members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, local government officials, and other key stakeholders in the state's entertainment and tourism sectors.
