Arise News broadcaster Rufai Oseni has backed comments made by social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), about insecurity in Nigeria, arguing that the crisis would end if the government genuinely decided to stop it.

Oseni made the remarks during Arise News’ The Morning Show on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, a day after VDM appeared as a panellist at the Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt.

Oseni Questions Government’s Commitment

Reacting to VDM’s remarks at the conference, Oseni said the government has the capacity to end insecurity but questioned whether it is prepared to do so.

“The day the Nigerian government decides to end insecurity in the country, it will end. I don’t think they are ready to end it,” Oseni said.

He also questioned the reaction to VDM’s comments, arguing that the activist had raised concerns that many Nigerians have privately expressed about the persistence of insecurity.

“What did VeryDarkMan say yesterday at the NBA AGC that was wrong? Didn’t he say things we have always suspected?” he asked.

VDM Challenges ‘Unknown Gunmen’ Narrative

VDM made the comments during a plenary session titled “Known Gun Men” at the ongoing NBA AGC in Port Harcourt.

He told participants that he was invited to share his experiences with insecurity rather than teach lawyers about the law. He questioned the description of attackers as “unknown gunmen”, arguing that security agencies often have information about the identities and locations of perpetrators.

VDM also alleged that some elements within security agencies benefit from the insecurity crisis and argued that political interests contribute to its persistence. A military representative at the conference cautioned him against making broad allegations without evidence.

NBA Recognises VeryDarkMan

VDM has previously documented insecurity incidents and visited communities affected by attacks and violence.

During the conference, he also raised concerns about the capacity of security agencies to protect Nigeria’s large population and called for stronger measures to enable citizens to defend themselves.

The NBA subsequently presented him with a special recognition award for his participation and contribution to the discussion.

Insecurity Remains Major National Issue

Oseni’s comments come amid continuing concerns over banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and attacks on communities across several parts of Nigeria.

The debate over VDM’s remarks has also raised questions about accountability within security institutions and whether government authorities are doing enough to tackle the causes and perpetrators of violent crime.

Oseni’s position has generated further discussion online, with reactions divided between those who see VDM’s claims as reflecting long-standing public concerns and those demanding evidence for allegations involving security agencies and government officials.