Police investigate VeryDarkMan over Unauthorized Use of Uniform
“My name is CSP VeryDarkMan of the online division, Nigeria’s number one online police. I’m not an activist; stop calling me an activist…” With these provocative words, social media personality Martins Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan, ignited a firestorm across Nigeria’s digital landscape.
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Draped in an official police uniform, Otse’s bold declaration in a viral video has not only challenged the boundaries of creative expression but also thrust the nation’s law enforcement into the spotlight, sparking a heated debate on the role of online activism in modern Nigeria.
Who is the VeryDarkMan?
Martins Vincent Otse, born on April 8, 1994, and popularly known as VeryDarkMan, is a Nigerian activist, critic, and social media influencer who has made a significant impact in the digital realm.
Growing up in Kaduna, Nigeria, VeryDarkMan first gained widespread attention in 2022 through his associations with Nigerian celebrities and his provocative videos on Instagram.
His influence expanded when Nigerian singer Davido followed and publicly endorsed him in June 2023, leading to his nomination for Silverbird’s Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year award.
Despite his rising popularity, VeryDarkMan’s career has been marred by controversy, including multiple arrests on charges of cyberbullying, cyberstalking, and defamation. Notably, he faced legal challenges in 2024, culminating in a public demand from Falana & Falana Chambers for a retraction and apology over allegedly defamatory statements. Through his contentious yet impactful presence, VeryDarkMan has remained a prominent and polarizing figure in Nigeria’s social media landscape.
In the recent video, Otse declared himself CSP VeryDarkMan, Nigeria’s “number one online police officer,” and pledged to combat online oppression, especially targeting fraudulent online vendors.
Otse’s direct approach, which includes naming and shaming alleged offenders, resonates with many Nigerians frustrated by systemic corruption and inefficiency. However, his methods have drawn the ire of the Nigeria Police Force, leading to a broader conversation about the limits of creative expression.
The Police Response
The Nigeria Police Force swiftly condemned Otse’s actions. Police spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi stated, “The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns the unauthorized use of official uniforms and accouterments by online personality Mr. Martins Otse, popularly known as ‘VDM,’ in a video posted on his social media platforms.” Adejobi announced a full investigation into how Otse obtained the uniform and under what authority he acted.
Adejobi’s statement also emphasized the legal ramifications: “It is important to remind the public that the unauthorized use of police uniforms, insignia, or accouterments constitutes a criminal offense, as stipulated in Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law and is subject to strict penalties.”
Creativity vs. Legality
This incident underscores the broader issue of balancing creative freedom with legal boundaries. While the Nigeria Police Force recognizes the creativity of young Nigerians, it firmly cautions against the misuse of police symbols.
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“Unauthorized use of these items undermines the values and integrity of the Force and will not be tolerated,” the police statement reiterated.
The clash between Otse and the police highlights a challenge faced by many in the African diaspora. The diaspora has a history of using creative expression for activism and change, from the Harlem Renaissance to anti-apartheid art movements.
However, the VeryDarkMan controversy raises important questions about where to draw the line between creativity and respect for the law.
The Role of Online Activists
Online activists like Otse play a significant role in modern Nigeria, where social media is a critical space for political and social discourse. With over 33 million social media users in Nigeria, platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are essential for raising awareness, mobilizing protests, and holding authorities accountable.
Otse’s followers see him as a necessary disruptor in a flawed system. His direct approach appeals to those who feel justice is out of reach. However, his methods raise ethical and legal concerns, particularly when impersonating official authorities.
Broader Implications for the African Diaspora
For the African diaspora, the VeryDarkMan saga is a compelling case study in activism, legality, and creative expression.
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The diaspora maintains a keen interest in their home country’s events, influencing and being influenced by them. According to the African Development Bank, remittances from the diaspora were over $48 billion in 2019, showing their significant impact and they are constantly watching what is happening in Africa like the current situation in Nigeria.
The Future of Content Creation
The investigation into Otse’s actions could set a precedent for future cases. As content creation evolves, boundaries of acceptability will be tested. This incident highlights the importance of understanding and respecting legal frameworks even as creators push the envelope.
In Nigeria, where traditional and digital media intersect, clear guidelines and responsible content creation are crucial. As more young Africans use social media for expression and activism, balancing creativity and legality remains essential.
For the African diaspora, this incident exemplifies the challenges and opportunities of using digital platforms for social change. As Nigeria watches closely, the outcomes of this controversy will influence future content creation and activism.
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