Tag: Verydarkman

  • Oyo Govt Denies Paying Ransom for Abducted Schoolchildren, Teachers

    The Oyo State Government has dismissed claims that it paid ransom to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the allegation as false.

    The government was reacting to claims made by social media personality Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), who alleged in a viral video that ransom had been paid but the victims were yet to regain their freedom.

    Government rejects ransom claims

    In a statement, the state government insisted that no ransom was paid for the abducted pupils and teachers.

    Officials maintained that security agencies are continuing efforts to rescue the victims, urging residents to disregard unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary panic.

    The government also reaffirmed its commitment to securing the safe return of everyone still in captivity.

    School abduction triggered public outrage

    The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, after heavily armed gunmen attacked schools in the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area.

    The affected schools included Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinle.

    The attack reportedly claimed the life of one teacher during the invasion, while another teacher was later reported to have died in captivity.

    Protests followed incident

    The abduction sparked protests across the state, including a demonstration led by VeryDarkMan at the residence of Governor Seyi Makinde, where protesters demanded the immediate rescue of the victims and improved security for schools.

    The incident also disrupted academic activities, leading to school closures and an indefinite strike by teachers in some affected communities.

    Security operations continue

    Authorities said security operations have been intensified, with security personnel working to locate the abductors and rescue those still being held.

    The incident has once again drawn attention to the recurring challenge of school abductions in Nigeria, with many calling for stronger measures to protect schools and rural communities from criminal attacks.

  • VeryDarkMan Mocks Government, Raises Monthly Artisan Support to ₦1.5 Million

    Social media personality VeryDarkMan has announced an increase in his monthly financial support for Nigerians learning vocational skills, raising the fund to ₦1.5 million while criticising the government’s approach to youth empowerment.

    The activist said the decision followed comments he attributed to Nigeria’s First Lady on encouraging small-scale businesses as a means of livelihood.

    VeryDarkMan announces new empowerment fund

    Speaking in a video shared online, VeryDarkMan said he had been supporting Nigerians with funds to help them acquire vocational skills and become financially independent.

    He disclosed that the monthly support would now increase to ₦1.5 million, with six beneficiaries selected every month to learn different trades.

    “I dey give money to people every month so that people will empower themselves but did you hear what the president’s wife said? That people should go and fry akara, fry corn and sell kuli kuli for 2026. These people don’t have any good plans for the youth. At least now you people will value me,” he said.

    He added, “So now I go carry the money up go N1.5m for six people to learn handwork every month end. You’ll tell me the work you want to do and they go share the money to una. Abeg make una learn handwork o. The good plan government have for you na akara and kuli kuli.”

    Video generates reactions

    The announcement quickly attracted reactions across social media, with many users praising the increase in support for vocational training and artisans.

    Others focused on his criticism of the government’s youth empowerment strategy, reigniting conversations about unemployment, entrepreneurship and job creation in Nigeria.

     

  • Makinde Promises Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren as VDM Leads Protest in Ibadan

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has vowed to do everything possible to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, declaring that he would be willing to sacrifice himself if it would guarantee their freedom.

    The governor made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing popular social commentator and activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and hundreds of protesters who marched to the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan over the abduction.

    Makinde Assures Families of Victims

    Makinde said the state government had committed significant resources and mobilised all available security structures to ensure the victims are rescued.

    “Those children and their teachers will be brought back. Let me make it very clear: Oyo State is not Chibok, and it will never become Chibok. We have committed significant resources and deployed all available efforts to ensure their rescue,” he said.

    The governor noted that security personnel involved in the rescue efforts had continued to make sacrifices and assured residents that the government remained fully committed to bringing the victims home safely.

    Governor Speaks as a Parent

    Speaking on the emotional toll of the incident, Makinde said he understood the pain of the affected families because he is also a parent.

    “This is our reality now. I am also distressed with what is happening to our children after one month because I have children of my own too,” he said.

    He described the situation as particularly troubling because many of the victims were nursery school pupils.

    “This is the first time such a situation is happening, especially affecting nursery pupils who cannot even run or take care of themselves. I assure you that as the governor, we will rescue them.”

    ‘I Will Sacrifice Myself If Necessary’

    The governor further stressed his commitment to securing the victims’ freedom, saying no sacrifice would be too great if it meant bringing them back safely.

    “If you ask me whether I can sacrifice myself for those children to regain their freedom, I will do it. I have lived a good life, and nothing is more important than bringing those innocent children and their teachers back safely,” Makinde stated.

    His remarks came amid growing public concern over the abduction and increasing calls for urgent action from authorities.

    Governor Acknowledges Security Challenges

    Makinde said security had remained one of the priorities of his administration since he assumed office.

    He recalled establishing the state-backed security outfit, Amotekun, but admitted that the corps was yet to be adequately armed.

    “When I came in as governor, security was one of the cardinal principles of this administration and that’s why we set up Amotekun, but Amotekun has not been armed adequately. That is our reality now,” he said.

    VDM Leads Protest in Ibadan

    Earlier today, VeryDarkMan led members of the Ratel Movement and other supporters in a peaceful protest through major parts of Ibadan.

    The protesters gathered under the Iwo Road bridge before marching through the city with placards demanding the immediate rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers.

    Addressing demonstrators, VDM urged both the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release and strengthen security measures across the country.

    He said the protest was aimed at ensuring the plight of the victims and their families remained in public focus while drawing national attention to the growing security concerns affecting schools.

    The demonstration attracted widespread attention from residents as protesters chanted solidarity songs and called for urgent intervention from authorities.

  • VeryDarkMan Urges Government to Act After New Video of Abducted Oyo Pupils Emerges

    Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has reacted to a newly circulated video allegedly showing some of the teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State, calling on authorities to act swiftly to secure their freedom.

    The video reportedly featured one of the victims, Mrs. Alamu, a school principal, who appealed from captivity and disputed claims that the abductors were demanding money, weapons or the implementation of Sharia law.

    VeryDarkMan Calls for Urgent Action

    Reacting to the footage, VeryDarkMan said the safety and return of the abducted children and teachers should be the government’s immediate priority.

    He argued that any genuine and verifiable demand capable of securing their release should be considered without unnecessary delays.

    “Everything is very clear and I think their demand is very, very realistic. I don’t think the government should wait any second,” he said.

    Focus Should Be on Victims, He Says

    The activist maintained that prolonged debates over the demands would not help the victims, many of whom have reportedly spent more than two weeks in captivity.

    “There should be any debate whether they talk one billion or not. It’s clear since they are the ones that recorded her,” he stated.

    “I personally think that is a very, very good trade because these are just children that have been inside the bush for more than two weeks.”

    Appeal for Immediate Resolution

    VeryDarkMan added that authorities should prioritise the safe return of the victims rather than attempting to outsmart the abductors during negotiations.

    “I don’t think there is any reason to play smart if this is what they want. Please give them what they want and let the kids come back home,” he said.

    Concerns Continue Over Abducted Pupils

    The latest video has intensified public concern over the fate of the abducted teachers and pupils, with many Nigerians demanding urgent intervention from security agencies and government officials.

    Authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement confirming the authenticity of the video or clarifying the exact conditions being demanded by the abductors.

  • Police Arrest Ifechukwu Dennis Over AI-Generated Fake Tinubu Voice Note Circulation

    The Nigerian Police Force has arrested Ifechukwu Dennis, identified as the alleged originator of an AI-generated voice note falsely circulated online as a recording of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The arrest was confirmed on Thursday by the Presidency, following a week-long controversy that spread across social media platforms.

    Presidency Confirms Arrest

    Presidential Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the arrest in a post on his official X account, stating that the suspect was apprehended in Benin by an IGP crack team.

    “The IGP crack team has arrested Ifechukwu Dennis who originated the fake voice that he passed on to his gullible targets as President Tinubu’s voice,” Onanuga said.

    He added that the Nigeria Police Force would release an official statement on the development.

    How the Controversy Began

    The incident traces back to May 27, 2026, when a video involving social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, began circulating widely online.

    In the clip, an AI-generated voice resembling President Tinubu was used to make a series of controversial claimed., including allegations about insecurity in the South-East, claims that Peter Obi was pressured to withdraw from the 2023 presidential race, and statements suggesting indifference to national hardship.

    The recording triggered widespread reactions before investigations revealed that the audio had been artificially inserted into the original content.

    Investigation Clears VeryDarkMan

    Media investigations later showed that VeryDarkMan did not post or author the manipulated voice note. According to findings, an unidentified individual extracted footage from his Instagram video and superimposed the AI-generated audio before recirculating it online.

    Fact-checking reports confirmed that the original video contained no such statements.

    Presidency Reacts Amid Backlash

    Despite clarification from investigators, the Presidency initially called for action against those responsible for the viral recording.

    Onanuga had described the situation as “a clear case of egregious abuse of the social media platform,” a statement that later drew public criticism after fact-checkers cleared the activist of involvement in the fabricated audio.

    The arrest now shifts attention to ongoing investigations into the creation and spread of AI-generated misinformation and its implications for digital content regulation in Nigeria.

     

  • VeryDarkMan Alleges DSS Questioned Activist Livinus Nwosu Over His Name, Claims He Was Listed as PVC Sensitisation Sponsor

    Social media activist VeryDarkMan has alleged that fellow activist Livinus Nwosu was questioned about him during his reported detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).

    In a video shared online, VDM claimed that after Nwosu was released from custody, the activist reached out to him with details of what allegedly transpired while he was being held.

    Alleged questioning over civic campaigns

    According to VeryDarkMan, Nwosu told him that security operatives asked questions about his whereabouts and attempted to find out when he would be returning to Nigeria.

    He further alleged that DSS officials asked Nwosu to write down the names of individuals linked to voter awareness and civic sensitisation campaigns, including his own name and that of popular influencer Tunde Ednut.

    Claims from messages after release

    VDM said the information came from messages he reportedly received from Nwosu after his release from detention, adding that the claims raised concerns about the targeting of civic activists involved in voter education.

    Return to Nigeria and reaction

    The activist also shared details of his planned return to Nigeria, stating that he is not afraid of arrest if authorities choose to invite or question him.

    He maintained that civic sensitisation efforts should not be discouraged, insisting that voter awareness remains essential ahead of future elections.

    Public reaction and wider concerns

    The allegation has sparked fresh debate online, with supporters expressing concern over the treatment of activists involved in voter education, while others have called for caution until official clarification is provided by security agencies.

    As of the time of this report, the DSS has not issued any public response to the allegations.

     

  • VeryDarkMan Raises Alarm Over Alleged Disappearance of Activist in Bayelsa

    Social media activist Martins Otse has raised concerns over the reported disappearance of activist Livinus Nwosu, alleging that he was taken away by armed men in Bayelsa State.

    According to claims circulating online, Nwosu was allegedly seized by masked men dressed in black while participating in voter sensitisation activities aimed at encouraging citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

    Wife Reportedly Raises Alarm

    VeryDarkMan said Nwosu’s wife contacted him and members of the Ratel Movement after being unable to reach her husband.

    He alleged that the activist was involved in campaigns encouraging voter registration and educating residents about the importance of civic participation ahead of future elections.

    The social media personality claimed the incident may have been intended to discourage political awareness among young Nigerians, although no official evidence has been presented to support the allegation.

    Claims of Political Intimidation

    Reacting to the development, VeryDarkMan alleged that the reported incident was connected to ongoing voter mobilisation efforts.

    He argued that increasing awareness around PVC registration and voter participation was attracting attention from political actors who may be uncomfortable with growing youth engagement in the electoral process.

    The activist also criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing it of failing to address key national challenges.

    Call for Investigation

    VeryDarkMan said efforts would be made to seek clarification from security authorities in Bayelsa State and provide legal support if necessary.

    He maintained that voter sensitisation campaigns would continue despite the reported incident.

    As of the time of filing this report, no security agency has officially confirmed Nwosu’s alleged arrest, detention or whereabouts.

    Authorities Yet to Respond

    There has also been no official statement from the Bayelsa State Police Command or other relevant authorities regarding the claims.

    The circumstances surrounding the activist’s reported disappearance remain unclear, and the allegations have not been independently verified.

  • VeryDarkMan Pushes PVC Registration, Calls for Greater Voter Participation

    Social media critic Martins Vincent Otse has called on Nigerians to take future elections more seriously, urging citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the democratic process.

    Speaking in a video shared online, the activist argued that elected officials should be removed through the ballot box if they fail to meet public expectations.

    Call for Greater Voter Participation

    VeryDarkMan said voting remains one of the strongest tools available to citizens seeking change and accountability in governance.

    According to him, politicians would become more responsible if they understood that voters were prepared to replace them when they failed to deliver.

    “If we can vote President Tinubu out of power, Nigeria will improve by at least 70%. It would send a message that whoever we elect can be removed if they fail to perform,” he said.

    Criticism of Low Voter Registration

    The activist also expressed concern over what he described as low voter participation among Nigerians, particularly those who frequently discuss political issues on social media.

    He urged citizens to begin encouraging others to register and obtain their PVCs ahead of future elections.

    “That alone will make anyone seeking power understand that they must deliver and do the right thing. Everybody should start preaching to everyone to get their voter card, the time is now. Eighty percent of people that talk on social media don’t even have PVC,” he added.

    Debate Over Governance and Accountability

    His comments come amid ongoing national conversations about insecurity, economic challenges and public accountability.

    While some Nigerians have supported his call for increased voter participation, others have debated his assessment of the current administration and the role elections play in addressing governance concerns.

    VeryDarkMan has consistently encouraged greater civic engagement, maintaining that meaningful political change can only be achieved when citizens actively participate in the electoral process.

  • VDM’s Brother Launches Auto Dealership in China Amid Online Debate

    Macavelli, the brother of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has launched an automobile dealership, Mac Wheels Limited, in Guangzhou, China.

    Videos and announcements shared online  showed the official unveiling of the company, which focuses on vehicle sourcing and automobile dealership services.

    Auto Business Begins Operations in Guangzhou

    Promotional videos from the launch showed Macavelli inside the company’s office in Guangzhou, interacting with clients and showcasing the dealership’s branding.

    The office featured Nigerian and Chinese flags, corporate branding, and a business setting aimed at facilitating direct vehicle imports from Chinese manufacturers to international markets, including Nigeria.

    The launch comes amid growing interest among Nigerians in sourcing vehicles directly from overseas markets due to rising automobile prices.

    Connection to VDM Draws Attention

    The development quickly attracted attention because of Macavelli’s relationship with VeryDarkMan, who has built a large following through activism and social commentary.

    Some social media users linked the launch to the Martins Vincent Otse Initiative (MVOI), a non-governmental organisation established by the activist and funded through public donations.

    Critics questioned whether any funds connected to the organisation were used to support the business venture.

    Supporters Defend Business Move

    Supporters, however, dismissed the allegations, arguing that there is no evidence linking MVOI funds to the dealership.

    They maintained that the business represents a separate family investment and pointed to VeryDarkMan’s earnings from content creation, brand influence, and other disclosed ventures.

    Others argued that entrepreneurship should not be viewed negatively simply because it involves public figures or activists.

    No Official Investigation Reported

    As of the time of reporting, there have been no official investigations or public reports linking the dealership to funds raised through the MVOI initiative.

    The launch has nevertheless generated widespread discussion online, with opinions divided between those seeking greater transparency and those celebrating the business expansion.

    The conversation continues across social media platforms as Nigerians debate celebrity activism, philanthropy accountability, and business ownership.

  • VeryDarkMan Calls for Nationwide School Boycott Over Abducted Oyo Teachers and Pupils

    Social media activist VeryDarkMan has called for a nationwide school boycott in response to the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted during an attack on schools in Oyo State.

    The activist made the appeal in a video shared on social media, where he expressed concern over what he described as the tendency of Nigerians to quickly move on from major national tragedies.

    Calls For Sustained Pressure

    According to VeryDarkMan, public attention should remain fixed on the plight of the abducted teachers and children until they are safely released.

    He argued that many serious issues often disappear from public discourse after a few days, allowing authorities and stakeholders to avoid sustained pressure.

    The activist insisted that the Oyo abduction case should not be forgotten while victims remain in captivity.

    Appeal To Teachers And Parents

    As part of his proposed action, VeryDarkMan urged public school teachers across Nigeria to stay away from classrooms beginning June 1, 2026.

    He also appealed to parents to temporarily keep their children at home as a show of solidarity with the abducted pupils and their families.

    According to him, a coordinated action would demonstrate national unity and increase public awareness about the ongoing crisis.

    ‘We Must Not Move On’

    In the video, the activist stated that the situation required collective action from Nigerians rather than silence.

    “Nigerians are cursed with one thing. They know how to move on quickly. However, on this issue on ground, we are not going to move on until they are released,” he said.

    He added that teachers and parents should use the boycott to draw attention to the victims’ situation and demand stronger efforts toward their rescue.

    Growing Concern Over Oyo Abductions

    The call comes amid increasing public concern over the abduction of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    The incident has sparked protests, solidarity walks and appeals from various groups demanding the safe return of those still being held captive.

    While security agencies continue rescue efforts, families, teachers’ unions and civil society groups have continued to call for urgent action to secure the victims’ release.