Popular social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has hit back at Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy.
Onanuga had called for VDM to face the full weight of the law over an alleged fake audio attributed to the president.
The clash erupted after Onanuga posted on X accusing VDM of disseminating manipulated content that could mislead Nigerians and damage the president's image.
VDM shared a strong response on Instagram. He described Onanuga as a "no brain" spokesperson who spread false information about him to create grounds for arrest.
"It’s been over 24 hours since the no brain Bayo Onanuga... came out to spread a false information about me," VDM stated. He claimed the plan to "cage" him had failed.
In a fiery video, VDM directly addressed Onanuga. He called him a "very very stupid old man" and questioned his failure to verify facts before making the accusation.
VDM challenged Onanuga's silence on pressing national issues. He referenced the kidnapping of teachers and students in Oyo State, noting one teacher was reportedly beheaded while children remain missing.
"You have never made comment about that," VDM said. "But suddenly, you’ve found your voice today... because this is an opportunity to silence VeryDarkMan."
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between government officials and vocal critics. VDM has built a large following by addressing insecurity, corruption, and governance failures.
Some observers, including PIDOM Nigeria, suggested Onanuga acted on a doctored video combining VDM's content with an AI-generated Tinubu voice note. Onanuga has not retracted his statement or issued an apology as of Thursday.
This is not VDM's first brush with authorities. He has faced previous arrests and legal challenges related to his activism, often drawing public sympathy.
Supporters view him as a fearless voice holding power accountable. Critics accuse him of recklessness and crossing lines with inflammatory remarks.
The exchange comes amid broader debates on free speech, misinformation on social media, and the use of state power against online influencers.
VDM reiterated his stance against Tinubu's return in 2027. He argued that appointees like Onanuga reflect poor leadership choices.
Public reactions on X have been divided. Many condemned Onanuga for the apparent error, while others urged VDM to tone down his language.
As the dust settles, questions linger about accountability in government communication. No official response from the presidency has addressed the claims of false accusation.
The incident underscores Nigeria's polarized political landscape, where critics and officials clash frequently over narratives and influence.
VDM ended his message by emphasizing resilience. He suggested ancestral forces thwarted efforts to silence him.
This latest episode adds to scandals surrounding digital rights and political accountability in the country. Both sides show no signs of backing down soon.

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