## An Analysis of Nigeria's Digital Age Social Crusader

*His Impact on Modern Nigerian Society, Consumer Protection, Anti-Corruption Advocacy, and the Fight Against State Repression*

**December 2025**

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## EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Martins Vincent Otse, known globally as VeryDarkMan or VDM, has emerged as one of Nigeria's most influential grassroots social crusaders of the digital age. With over 3 million Instagram followers and a growing movement called "The Ratel Movement" — which he boldly calls "the 4th Arm of Government" — he represents a new paradigm of citizen-led accountability that operates outside traditional institutional frameworks.

**"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..."** These words, delivered in a now-famous viral video, capture the essence of a man who has redefined what it means to fight for justice in the digital age.

This analysis examines VeryDarkMan's multifaceted impact on Nigerian society, his role as a consumer protection advocate, his crusade against corruption, his defense of the oppressed, and his significance within the broader context of Nigeria's governance challenges — including what has been described as systematic state violence and the erosion of democratic governance.

Most importantly, this document explores why Nigerian youth should study, emulate, and build upon the positive attributes demonstrated by Martins Vincent Otse, while also recognizing the critical need to protect voices of accountability like his from state repression that has historically silenced social crusaders in Nigeria.

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## PART I: BIOGRAPHICAL OVERVIEW

### Personal Background

**Full Name:** Martins Vincent Otse

**Born:** April 8, 1994 (Age 30)

**Place of Birth:** Kaduna, Nigeria

**State of Origin:** Agenebode, Edo State, Nigeria (Bini ethnic group)

**Education:** University of Lagos, Business Administration (some sources indicate O-Level Certificate)

**Professional Background:** Former fitness model, minor TV actor (Hush, Tinsel, The Johnsons), Dreadlocks specialist, Social Media Influencer, Social Crusader

**Platform:** Instagram (@verydarkblackman) — 3 Million+ Followers

**Self-Designation:** "Online Police," "CSP VeryDarkMan," "4th Arm of Government"

**Movement:** The Ratel Movement

### The Significance of His Name

The moniker "VeryDarkBlackMan" or "VDM" is a bold statement of identity and self-acceptance. He adopted this name as a deliberate embrace of his African heritage and dark skin complexion, challenging Eurocentric beauty standards and the harmful skin-bleaching culture prevalent across Nigeria and Africa.

His Instagram bio proudly states: "THE RATEL MOVEMENT — 4TH ARM OF THE GOVERNMENT — ONLINE POLICE NOT AN ACTIVIST — TRENCHES BORN/GHETTO RAISED — NO ADS ❌ NO PROMOTIONS ❌"

This choice reflects his advocacy against harmful skincare products and celebrates African identity — positioning him as not just an advocate for consumer rights, but also for cultural pride and self-acceptance among Africans.

### Why "Online Police" — NOT Activist

VDM has consistently rejected the label "activist." In his own words: **"I'm not an activist; stop calling me an activist."** Instead, he refers to himself as the "Online Police" — a self-appointed digital enforcer of accountability who holds people responsible rather than merely advocating for causes.

This distinction is important. While activists typically advocate for systemic change through protests, lobbying, and awareness campaigns, VDM operates as a direct intervention force — naming and shaming alleged offenders, documenting evidence, and mobilizing his followers to demand immediate accountability. His approach delivers results "in a matter of hours, shorter than the period needed to achieve the same objective in the conventional courts."

### The Ratel Spirit: Origin of the Movement Name

VDM calls his movement "The Ratel Movement" after the honey badger (ratel) — an animal famous for:
- Its fearlessness despite its small size
- Its willingness to take on much larger opponents
- Its remarkable resilience and refusal to back down
- Its thick skin that protects it from attacks

This symbolism captures the essence of what VDM represents: a fearless, resilient force that punches above its weight class and refuses to be intimidated by power.

### Rise to Prominence

VeryDarkMan's journey to national prominence began in 2022 when he started using social media platforms — particularly TikTok and Instagram — to expose businesses selling unregulated products. Before this, he had worked as a fitness model and had minor acting roles in popular Nigerian TV series including:
- Hush
- Tinsel  
- The Johnsons

His breakout moment came with his campaign against Jenny's Glow, a popular skincare brand he accused of selling products without proper NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) approval.

The campaign was triggered after a customer who complained about harmful products was allegedly arrested by the brand owner. VeryDarkMan's relentless investigation led to NAFDAC sealing Jenny's Glow shops in both Abuja and Lagos, establishing him as a formidable voice for consumer protection and marking the beginning of his transformation from content creator to Nigeria's "Online Police."

### Celebrity Endorsement and Recognition

In June 2023, Nigerian music superstar Davido publicly endorsed VDM on Instagram, causing his popularity to skyrocket. This endorsement from one of Africa's biggest musicians legitimized VDM's work and brought his message to an even wider audience.

Following this, VDM received a nomination for **Silverbird's Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year** award — an official recognition of his rapid ascent to prominence and his impact on Nigerian public discourse.

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## PART II: AREAS OF IMPACT AND SOCIAL CRUSADING

### 1. Consumer Protection Revolution

Before VeryDarkMan's emergence, consumer advocacy in Nigeria was largely perceived as ineffective and bureaucratic. Many Nigerians had resigned themselves to poor services, substandard products, and unresponsive companies, believing there was no recourse for their grievances.

VDM changed this narrative entirely.

#### Key Consumer Protection Achievements:

**Jenny's Glow Exposé (2023):** Successfully campaigned against the skincare brand selling unregistered products, leading to NAFDAC intervention and shop closures in both Abuja and Lagos. This case established his reputation as someone who delivers results.

**Fake Product Education:** Created extensive awareness campaigns about substandard food, drugs, alcohol, and skincare products flooding Nigerian markets. He consistently targets products without NAFDAC numbers.

**Consumer Rights Education:** Teaches consumers how to document grievances, file complaints, and seek redress through legal and regulatory channels. His videos serve as informal legal education for millions.

**Anti-Scam Technology:** Traveled to China to investigate fraudulent practices linking Chinese suppliers with Nigerian entrepreneurs. He is developing an app to protect Nigerians from fraudulent online vendors.

**Blord iPhone Exposé (2025):** Exposed businessman Blord for allegedly selling refurbished iPhone XR devices as iPhone 17 Pro for ₦400,000 when they were worth ₦280,000. He also investigated Blord's fintech platform Billpoint for allegedly collecting sensitive user data (BVN, NIN) for potentially illegal purposes.

**Tech Market Disruption:** After visiting China, VDM announced plans to establish a major gadget warehouse in Eastern Nigeria to offer electronics at near-Chinese prices, challenging what he describes as "extreme markup practices" by Nigerian retailers. He revealed that power banks selling for ₦36,000 in Nigeria cost only ₦6,000 in China, and original chargers priced at ₦15,000 locally are available for just ₦1,200 abroad.

**Online Vendor Accountability:** His declared war against fraudulent online vendors has created a culture of fear among scammers, knowing that VDM's exposure can destroy their businesses overnight.

#### The VDM Effect on Consumer Culture

His approach redefined consumer protection in Nigeria — demonstrating that holding businesses accountable does not have to rely solely on government intervention. By using social media as his primary tool, he created a generation of informed and proactive consumers who now document grievances and tag VDM for intervention.

As one analyst noted: "It is a role he is playing very effectively, worming his way into the hearts of Nigerians... His unorthodox justice system delivers results in a matter of hours, shorter than the period needed to achieve the same objective in the conventional courts."

---

### 2. Exposing Institutional Corruption: The Bobrisky-EFCC Scandal

Perhaps VeryDarkMan's most significant institutional impact came in September 2024 when he released a bombshell audio recording allegedly featuring crossdresser Bobrisky (Idris Okuneye) confessing to bribing EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) officials with ₦15 million.

#### The Bobrisky-EFCC Corruption Scandal:

The leaked recording alleged that:

1. EFCC officials accepted ₦15 million to drop money laundering charges against Bobrisky
2. Bobrisky did not serve his six-month prison sentence in Kirikiri prison as claimed by authorities
3. A "godfather" arranged for Bobrisky to stay in a private lodge instead of prison
4. Officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service were complicit in the arrangement

#### Institutional Response:

The scandal sent shockwaves through Nigeria's anti-corruption establishment:

- **EFCC Chairman Response:** Ola Olukoyede ordered an immediate investigation into the allegations
- **House of Representatives Probe:** The National Assembly launched a formal investigation
- **VDM's Testimony:** VeryDarkMan appeared before the House Joint Committee on Financial Crimes and Reformatory Institutions
- **Correctional Services Investigation:** The Nigerian Correctional Services was also investigated for allegedly allowing Bobrisky special treatment
- **Public Outcry:** The scandal sparked national debate about corruption within anti-corruption agencies

#### The Significance

This single exposé demonstrated VeryDarkMan's ability to trigger investigations at the highest levels of government, forcing anti-corruption agencies themselves to face scrutiny — a remarkable achievement for a civilian social crusader operating through social media.

The scandal also highlighted a devastating irony: the very agencies established to fight corruption were themselves allegedly corrupt. This revelation deepened public distrust in institutions while simultaneously elevating VDM's status as a genuine accountability mechanism.

---

### 3. Defending Victims of State Violence: The Yelewata Massacre Response

In June 2025, VeryDarkMan demonstrated his commitment to defending the oppressed when he physically traveled to Benue State following the Yelewata massacre, where over 200 people were reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen.

#### The Massacre

On June 14, 2025, armed men suspected to be herders invaded Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, leaving over 200 people dead. Victims included children who were burned alive. The attackers came prepared with gallons of fuel and AK-47 rifles, systematically burning homes with people inside.

#### VDM's Response:

**Physical Presence:** Traveled to Benue State to join thousands of protesting youths at Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi — demonstrating that he is not merely an online critic but someone willing to put himself at physical risk

**Documentation:** Documented the aftermath of the massacre, including graphic images of victims burned to ashes, and shared them on his platforms to ensure the world knew what happened

**De-escalation:** When angry protesters confronted security forces and the situation threatened to turn violent, VDM intervened to calm the crowd and prevent further bloodshed

**Confronting Authority:** Directly addressed President Tinubu's administration, demanding action. When the Deputy Governor of Benue attempted to address the protesters, they rejected him, demanding the Governor come personally

**Supporting the Suspended:** When the Chief Press Secretary of Benue State, Lubem Terkula, was suspended for participating in the protest, VDM publicly offered him employment with his NGO (Martins Vincent Otse Initiative)

#### His Words at the Protest:

**"Before coming here, I saw alarming things I have never seen in my life. I saw children burnt to ashes, a lot of children, a lot of people, crops and people's food were burnt in Yelewata, and we have a government."**

**"This state has suffered this since I was a boy. I have been hearing about Benue killings since I was a child, herdsmen and the Benue people... These attacks have been going on for years and no one is safe anymore."**

#### Criticism of Government Response

When President Tinubu's administration responded by calling for "dialogue and reconciliation" with the attackers, VDM was scathing:

**"Did you know how those people entered that place? They came with gallons of fuel. When they open the door, they pour the fuel and light it up. So where did all those with gallons of fuel pass through?"**

He called on Benue farmers to arm themselves legally for self-defense: **"Every farmer in Benue needs to go and get a gun with a license. It's bigger than what the government can come and intervene at this point."**

---

### 4. Philanthropy and Community Development

#### The Martins Vincent Otse Initiative (MVOI4ALL)

In October 2024, VeryDarkMan launched his NGO focused on community development and public education. The initiative has demonstrated remarkable public trust and support:

**Fundraising Success:**

- **First 24 hours:** Over ₦33 million raised
- **Notable:** Most donations were ₦500 or less — demonstrating support from ordinary Nigerians with limited means
- **Individual donations:** Many came in amounts as small as ₦22, ₦50, ₦72, ₦100 — showing the grassroots nature of his support
- **Don Jazzy's ₦100 million donation:** Music mogul Michael Collins Ajereh (Don Jazzy) donated ₦100 million to support public education initiatives, stating: "I believe in what you are doing and trust you to be as transparent as you have always been. We really need that in our country."
- **Additional ₦50 million:** Received another ₦50 million from an anonymous socialite
- **Total raised:** Over ₦300 million by early 2025

**NGO Objectives:**

- Revolutionize public education using modern teaching methods and AI technology
- Equip underfunded public schools with educational tools like projectors
- Recruit National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to teach in public schools (recognizing that many corps members struggle financially)
- Community development projects across Nigeria

**Transparency Commitment:**

VDM has promised full transparency with all donations:
- Publicly shares NGO account balances
- Documents every transaction
- Criticized other NGOs for using their platforms to accumulate personal wealth
- Promised to carry the public along on every expenditure

#### The Ratel Office: 4th Arm of Government Headquarters

In late 2025, VDM opened a physical Ratel office in Abuja — a storey building that serves as the headquarters for his movement. The office includes:

- Reception area
- Studio for content creation
- Conference room
- Kitchen (food prepared once daily for workers)
- Work station and customer care area
- Complaint lodging center
- Infrastructure request center (for communities seeking boreholes, etc.)

He declared this office the headquarters of "The 4th Arm of Government" — positioning The Ratel Movement as a civic institution alongside the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches.

#### The Ratel Movement Community Service

In September 2025, VeryDarkMan announced a monthly community service initiative through The Ratel Movement, scheduled for every last Saturday of the month.

**Activities include:**
- Street cleaning
- Drainage clearing
- Tree planting
- Community beautification
- Grassroots awareness campaigns
- Infrastructure support for underserved communities

This demonstrates his commitment to moving beyond online crusading to create tangible community impact — proving that The Ratel Movement is not just about exposing wrongdoing but about building a better Nigeria.

---

### 5. Direct Street Advocacy

Beyond his online presence, VDM has taken his crusading to the streets:

**Benue State Protests (June 2025):** Led peaceful protests demanding government intervention following the Yelewata massacre

**Primary School Teachers Advocacy (Abuja):** Led advocacy efforts for primary school teachers' rights in Abuja

**Bank Accountability:** Has physically confronted banks over customer complaints, including the GTBank incident involving his mother's account that led to his May 2025 arrest

**Displaced Persons Support:** Traveled to Jos to share money with displaced people, demonstrating direct humanitarian intervention

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## PART III: NIGERIA'S GOVERNANCE CONTEXT — Understanding the "Terror State" Framework

The article "Nigeria as a Terror State: A Critical Examination of State Violence, Impunity, and the Erosion of Democratic Governance" provides essential context for understanding why social crusaders like VeryDarkMan are so vital — and so endangered.

### Key Patterns Identified:

1. **Militarization Against Citizens:** Security forces deployed against communities exercising constitutional rights — from Operation Python Dance against IPOB to the Lekki Toll Gate massacre

2. **Selective Justice:** Amnesty and integration into the military for Boko Haram terrorists, while peaceful social critics face prosecution on treason charges

3. **Corruption as Violence Multiplier:** Systematic corruption weakening security and public services — exemplified by the "Dasukigate" scandal where $2.1 billion meant for weapons was stolen while soldiers died with inadequate equipment

4. **Silencing Dissent:** Documented pattern of arresting, detaining, and prosecuting critics using terrorism and cybercrime laws

5. **Judicial Complicity:** Courts used as instruments of repression rather than checks on power — with court orders routinely ignored by security agencies

### Historical Pattern: Social Crusaders Silenced by the State

Nigeria has a documented history of silencing those who challenge corruption and injustice:

| Social Crusader/Case | Fate |
|---------------------|------|
| **Ken Saro-Wiwa (1995)** | Executed by military tribunal for environmental advocacy against oil companies in Ogoniland |
| **Fela Anikulapo-Kuti** | Repeatedly arrested, beaten; Kalakuta Republic compound raided and burned by soldiers; his mother thrown from a window |
| **Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti** | Repeatedly detained despite being NMA President |
| **Chief Gani Fawehinmi** | Repeatedly arrested and detained by military regimes for human rights advocacy |
| **Omoyele Sowore (2019-present)** | Arrested for organizing #RevolutionNow protests; detained despite multiple court-ordered releases; charged with treason |
| **#EndSARS Protesters (2020)** | Lekki Toll Gate massacre; bank accounts frozen; travel restrictions; terrorism charges |
| **Nnamdi Kanu (IPOB)** | Extraordinary rendition from Kenya; detained on treason charges despite court orders for release |
| **Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky** | Detained for 6 years despite court orders for release; followers massacred |
| **#EndBadGovernance Protesters (2024)** | 10 protesters charged with treason (death penalty possible); 124 arrested including minors |

This historical pattern demonstrates the persistent danger faced by anyone who challenges power in Nigeria — making VeryDarkMan's continued crusading remarkable and his safety a matter of public concern.

---

## PART IV: VERYDARKMAN'S OWN ENCOUNTERS WITH STATE POWER

VeryDarkMan himself has faced multiple arrests and legal challenges, demonstrating that he operates under the same threat of state repression that has silenced other Nigerian social crusaders:

### Arrest and Detention Timeline:

**March 2024:** Arrested on allegations of cyberbullying and cyberstalking, including allegations related to Nigerian actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh. He pleaded not guilty and was detained for two weeks before release on May 29, 2024.

**June 2024:** Arrested again at his Abuja residence on defamation charges related to social media exposés. Questioned by police on June 30, 2024, and released shortly after.

**September 2024:** Received 24-hour ultimatum from prominent law firm Falana & Falana Chambers demanding retraction and apology for allegedly defamatory statements against Femi Falana made in an Instagram post.

**May 2, 2025:** Arrested by EFCC after visiting a GTBank branch in Abuja where he had gone to complain about alleged unauthorized deductions from his mother's account. His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, alleged that he was "deliberately trapped inside the bank's exit door for over 5 minutes to enable EFCC arrest him."

### Police Uniform Controversy

In October 2024, VDM sparked controversy when he posted a video wearing an official Nigerian Police uniform, declaring himself "CSP VeryDarkMan" of the "online division." The Nigeria Police Force condemned this as unauthorized use of official uniforms and announced an investigation.

VDM's response was characteristically defiant: the uniform was symbolic of his role as the nation's self-appointed accountability enforcer.

### International Recognition and Defense

Following VeryDarkMan's May 2025 arrest, the **International Organization for Human Rights Development and Environment (IOHRDE)**, which holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), condemned his arrest as **"a direct assault on freedom of expression."**

The organization described VeryDarkMan as **"a symbol of truth, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice,"** and warned that detaining social crusaders for speaking out **"sets a dangerous precedent, undermines democratic values, and shrinks the civic space essential for societal development."**

This international recognition underscores VeryDarkMan's significance beyond Nigeria's borders and the global concern for his safety and freedom.

### Protests Following His Arrest

When VDM was arrested in May 2025, protests erupted across Nigeria:
- Youths gathered outside GTBank branches in Rivers State
- Protesters held signs reading "Free VeryDarkMan"
- Some threatened to close their bank accounts in solidarity
- Social media erupted with the hashtag #FreeVeryDarkBlackMan

The protests demonstrated that VDM's cause has become bigger than one man — it represents the aspirations of millions of Nigerians for accountability and justice.

---

## PART V: WHY NIGERIAN YOUTH SHOULD EMULATE VERYDARKMAN

VeryDarkMan represents a model of positive civic engagement that Nigerian youth can study, emulate, and build upon. His approach demonstrates several key principles:

### 1. Digital Tools for Social Change

- Leveraging social media to reach millions without requiring traditional media access or gatekeepers
- Using video documentation to provide irrefutable evidence of wrongdoing
- Building a decentralized movement (The Ratel Movement) that is difficult to suppress
- Demonstrating that one person's determination can lead to systemic change
- Creating content that performs well algorithmically — short, direct, emotionally compelling

### 2. Transparency and Accountability

- Publicly sharing NGO account balances and donation records
- Criticizing other NGOs for using platforms to accumulate personal wealth
- Documenting every transaction and promising full accountability
- Walking the talk — demonstrating the transparency he demands from others
- Rejecting endorsement deals and advertisements that might compromise his independence (as stated in his bio: "NO ADS ❌ NO PROMOTIONS ❌")

### 3. Courage and Persistence

- Continuing his crusade despite multiple arrests
- Taking on powerful individuals and institutions regardless of consequences
- Physically traveling to crisis zones (Benue) to stand with victims
- Refusing to be silenced by lawsuits, arrests, or threats
- Maintaining his positions even when facing legal ultimatums from powerful law firms

### 4. Cultural Pride and Identity

- Embracing African identity through his name and messaging
- Fighting against harmful skin-bleaching products and Eurocentric beauty standards
- Demonstrating pride in coming from humble beginnings ("TRENCHES BORN/GHETTO RAISED")
- Connecting his crusade to broader African heritage and values
- Using his dark complexion as a badge of honor rather than shame

### 5. Authenticity and Relatability

- Speaking like ordinary Nigerians — raw, passionate, unfiltered
- Filming in simple settings without fancy production
- Maintaining his signature black vest appearance
- Refusing to adopt a polished, diplomatic tone
- Addressing issues that affect everyday people

### 6. Beyond Online Crusading

- Establishing a legitimate NGO with concrete educational goals
- Creating monthly community service programs (The Ratel Movement)
- Physically showing up at protest sites and crisis zones
- Opening a physical office (The Ratel Office) as movement headquarters
- Developing technology solutions (anti-scam app) for systemic problems
- Planning direct market intervention (gadget warehouse) to disrupt exploitative pricing
- Providing direct humanitarian support (money to displaced persons in Jos)

### 7. Movement Building

- Creating The Ratel Movement as a structured organization
- Establishing clear identity and branding (Ratel logo, "4th Arm of Government")
- Organizing regular community activities (monthly service days)
- Building infrastructure (office, studio, complaint center)
- Creating systems for people to report injustice and request help

---

## PART VI: THE IMPERATIVE OF PROTECTING SOCIAL CRUSADERS

### Why Protection Matters

In a context where the Nigerian state has demonstrated willingness to silence critics through:

- **Execution** (Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine)
- **Extrajudicial killings** (#EndSARS Lekki massacre)
- **Prolonged detention without trial** (Sheikh El-Zakzaky for 6 years, Omoyele Sowore)
- **Extraordinary rendition** (Nnamdi Kanu from Kenya)
- **Treason charges carrying death penalty** (#EndBadGovernance protesters)
- **Financial persecution** (freezing bank accounts of #EndSARS protesters)
- **Cybercrime and terrorism charges** for online criticism

...protecting social crusaders like VeryDarkMan is not merely a matter of solidarity but a strategic necessity for anyone who hopes for democratic governance and accountability in Nigeria.

### The Stakes

As the analysis "Nigeria as a Terror State" documents:

> "Nigeria's designation as a 'terror state' is not a permanent condition but a description of current practices that can change through concerted action. Whether that change comes peacefully through reform or violently through upheaval depends on decisions made now."

Social crusaders like VDM represent the peaceful path to accountability. If they are silenced, the alternatives become increasingly grim.

### Methods of Protection

1. **Public Visibility:** The more visible a social crusader is internationally, the higher the cost of suppression. Support VeryDarkMan's platform growth.

2. **Documentation:** Record and publicize every arrest, detention, and legal action against social crusaders. Create a public record that cannot be erased.

3. **Legal Support:** Ensure access to competent legal representation (like Deji Adeyanju for VeryDarkMan). Legal defense funds are essential.

4. **International Engagement:** Connect with international human rights organizations (like IOHRDE) that can apply diplomatic pressure.

5. **Movement Building:** Decentralize movements so they cannot be destroyed by targeting leaders. The Ratel Movement model is instructive.

6. **Financial Support:** Contribute to legal defense funds and NGO initiatives. Small donations from many people are powerful.

7. **Digital Security:** Help social crusaders protect their communications and data from surveillance. Train them in secure communication practices.

8. **Solidarity Actions:** When social crusaders are arrested, mobilize protests, social media campaigns, and pressure on authorities.

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## PART VII: CONTROVERSIES AND CRITICISMS

### Fair Assessment Requires Acknowledging Controversies

VeryDarkMan is not without critics, and a fair analysis must acknowledge the controversies:

**Monetization Questions:** Some critics have alleged that VDM's crusading is profit-driven, pointing to evidence that his social media pages are monetized. The EFCC reportedly investigated claims that he earned over ₦50 million online.

**Legal Troubles:** Multiple arrests and lawsuits suggest either a pattern of state persecution OR genuine legal violations — the truth likely contains elements of both.

**Aggressive Style:** His confrontational approach has been criticized as unnecessarily harsh, with some celebrities accusing him of being a "clout chaser."

**Celebrity Targeting:** Critics note that many of his targets are celebrities and entertainers rather than structural issues — though this may simply reflect who has the highest visibility on social media.

**Consistency Questions:** Some have questioned whether his actions always align with his stated principles of transparency and non-profit motivation.

### The Counter-Argument

However, supporters argue:

- Even if he earns money, this doesn't invalidate the impact of his exposés
- His results speak for themselves: Jenny's Glow sealed, EFCC investigated, House of Representatives probes launched
- Celebrity targets are legitimate because they have massive influence on Nigerian culture
- His legal troubles are evidence of his effectiveness — powerful interests want him silenced
- No social crusader is perfect; what matters is the overall direction of his work

### The Bottom Line

VeryDarkMan, like all public figures, is complex. He has flaws, makes mistakes, and may have mixed motivations. But his overall impact on Nigerian society has been to:
- Empower consumers
- Expose corruption
- Create accountability where none existed
- Give voice to the voiceless
- Build a movement for change

Whether you agree with everything he does or not, his influence on Nigerian public discourse is undeniable.

---

## CONCLUSION: THE RATEL SPIRIT

**"We are the wiser generation. We have the technology. We will not be like our fathers. We will not fold our arms and watch."**
— VeryDarkMan, addressing Benue protesters, June 2025

In a nation where the state has historically responded to dissent with violence, where corruption pervades institutions meant to fight corruption, where citizens face terror from both insurgents and security forces, voices like VeryDarkMan's represent hope for accountability and change.

He follows in the footsteps of legends — Fela Kuti, Gani Fawehinmi, Beko Ransome-Kuti, Ken Saro-Wiwa — but with tools they never had: social media platforms that reach millions instantly, video documentation that provides irrefutable evidence, and a decentralized movement structure that is resilient to suppression.

Nigerian youth face a choice: accept the status quo of corruption, impunity, and state violence, or emulate the courage and persistence of social crusaders who demand better. VeryDarkMan, with all his flaws and controversies, demonstrates that one person — armed with a smartphone, moral conviction, and fearless determination — can make powerful institutions answer for their actions.

The path he walks is dangerous. Every arrest, every lawsuit, every threat is a reminder that challenging power in Nigeria carries real risks. But it is precisely because this path is dangerous that those who walk it must be protected, supported, and celebrated.

As VeryDarkMan himself noted regarding the Benue killings: **"This state has suffered this since I was a boy. I have been hearing about Benue killings since I was a child... These attacks have been going on for years and no one is safe anymore."** His willingness to amplify these voices, to stand with victims, to demand accountability — this is the example Nigerian youth must build upon.

The Ratel spirit is simple: Be fearless. Refuse to back down. Punch above your weight. Protect yourself with thick skin. And never, ever give up.

---

**The time for accountability is now.**

**The Ratel Movement continues.**

**The 4th Arm of Government is watching.**

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## APPENDIX: KEY RESOURCES AND REFERENCES

### VeryDarkMan's Platforms

- **Instagram:** @verydarkblackman (3M+ followers)
- **TikTok:** @theverydarkman / @verydarkman_tiktok
- **NGO:** Martins Vincent Otse Initiative (MVOI4ALL)
- **Movement:** The Ratel Movement
- **Headquarters:** Ratel Office, Abuja

### Key Organizations Mentioned

- International Organization for Human Rights Development and Environment (IOHRDE)
- Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
- National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
- Human Rights Watch
- Amnesty International
- Nigeria House of Representatives

### His Legal Team

- **Lawyer:** Deji Adeyanju
- **Law Firm:** Falana & Falana Chambers (opponents in one case)

### Key Supporters

- **Don Jazzy** (Michael Collins Ajereh) — ₦100 million donation
- **Davido** — Public endorsement
- **Cubana Chief Priest** — Public support

### Source Article

"Nigeria as a Terror State: A Critical Examination of State Violence, Impunity, and the Erosion of Democratic Governance" - Speakox.com, December 2025

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**— END OF DOCUMENT —**

*Document prepared December 2025*

*For publication on Speakox.com*