The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan.
The invitation follows comments he made at the Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference. VeryDarkMan spoke during a plenary session on Nigeria’s security crisis in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
According to Daily Post, police want him to explain and support some of his claims. The activist made several allegations against security agencies during the conference.
He claimed that security personnel knew the identities of some people behind violent attacks. VeryDarkMan also questioned why kidnappers still operate along major highways despite police checkpoints.
He alleged that some officers could identify wealthy travellers at checkpoints. He further claimed that such information could reach criminal groups ahead of travellers.
However, VeryDarkMan did not provide evidence for the claims during his presentation. His comments drew attention because senior security officials attended the session.
The Inspector-General of Police and other security chiefs were among the participants. VeryDarkMan also criticised the common description of attackers as “unknown gunmen.”
He argued that security agencies should know more about the people behind such attacks. The activist also called for easier access to firearms for Nigerians seeking self-defence.
He argued that security agencies lack enough personnel to protect the country’s large population. VeryDarkMan said citizens should have better means of protecting themselves.
His appearance at the NBA conference had already generated controversy. Some lawyers questioned the decision to invite a social media activist to the event. Others defended the invitation and praised his firsthand experience with insecurity.
VeryDarkMan also defended his presence at the conference. He said the NBA invited him to share his experiences, not teach lawyers about law. The activist has previously visited communities affected by attacks and other violent incidents.
He cited some of those experiences while discussing Nigeria’s security challenges. His remarks, however, attracted a response from a military representative at the event.
The representative cautioned him against making allegations without evidence. VeryDarkMan later apologised over some of the comments he made during the session.
He also received recognition from the NBA after sharing his experiences with the audience. The latest police invitation now shifts attention to the evidence behind his allegations.
Police are expected to hear directly from the activist about the claims he made. The development could also renew debate over accountability within Nigeria’s security system.
It comes as Nigerians continue to demand stronger action against kidnapping and violent crime. For now, attention remains on VeryDarkMan and his response to the police invitation.
Elom Fortunate Chiemerie is junior staff at modern crux that covers news on international politics, sports news and entertainment News
