[REVISION HISTORY]

Controversy and apology regarding VeryDarkMan at NBA

Updated 5 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-01 21:07 UTC → 2026-09-04 13:23 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Controversy ~~over~~ and apology regarding VeryDarkMan at NBA ~~conference~~

Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, sparked controversy during the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt. During a session titled ‘Known Gun Men’, Otse alleged that security agencies, including the military, immigration, and customs, are often the actual ‘unknown gunmen’ responsible for violence. He further claimed that police officers at checkpoints relay information about wealthy travelers to kidnappers to facilitate abductions. The Nigeria Police Force formally rejected these claims, labeling them ‘unsubstantiated and unfairly damaging’ and challenging Otse to provide credible evidence. NPF spokesperson Ani Iniedu stated that such sweeping accusations are demoralizing to officers serving with integrity. In response, Otse indicated he would honor an invitation to appear before the police but refused to hand over his evidence during questioning, stating he intends to present it in court if charged. He also released an unverified video on Instagram, which he described as his ‘first evidence’, and alleged that poor welfare and remuneration contribute to hostility within the force. While the NBA presented Otse with a recognition award for his firsthand experiences with violence, the decision to include a non-lawyer drew criticism from legal professionals. Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana argued that the NBA should prioritize intellectual engagement with experts rather than entertainment. Otse has since accused critics of the legal profession of classism. Following the controversy, lawyer Dele Farotimi suggested the rise of such figures serves as an indictment of a failing legal system, noting that citizens increasingly seek justice through social media rather than formal courts. Additionally, influencer DeeOne accused Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu of providing preferential treatment, alleging the IGP is shielding Otse from arrest despite his refusal to comply with police invitations, contrasting this with the recent arrests of other public figures.

Versions

Only revisions since CLSTR began indexing content versions appear here. Select a version to see what changed compared to the one before it.