Controversial social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has stirred fresh debate with explosive remarks on Nigeria's worsening insecurity.
In a widely circulated video, VDM argued that President Bola Tinubu should yield to terrorist demands and release captives held by bandits. "What does it matter if they release the terrorists in captivity? The terrorists are everywhere anyway," he stated bluntly.
He linked the crisis directly to government priorities. VDM claimed terrorists "are not even supposed to be in Nigeria in the first place if Tinubu had invested in our security."
The activist highlighted a recent approval by President Tinubu of $500 million for the modernisation of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, handled by Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo. According to VDM, this funding should have targeted security instead.
"If the country isn't safe, who would want to come to Nigeria?" he questioned, pointing to the airport project as misplaced amid rampant kidnappings and attacks.
VDM's comments come against a backdrop of ongoing abductions, including high-profile cases that have drawn national attention. Critics have accused the administration of inadequate response, with some officials like Works Minister David Umahi defending that insecurity predates Tinubu's tenure.
Social media erupted following the video. Supporters praised VDM for voicing public frustration over lives lost to bandits and terrorists. Others condemned his stance as dangerous and sympathetic to criminals, accusing him of undermining national efforts.
This is not VDM's first clash with the government. He has previously dragged officials over alleged failures in protecting citizens, including calls for Tinubu to resign over insecurity and sharp criticism of military responses.
The $500 million airport initiative aims to transform the ageing facility into a regional hub, with Keyamo defending it as an investment from national savings rather than loans. Proponents argue it boosts economic competitiveness.
Detractors, echoing VDM, insist basic safety must come first before infrastructure glamour. Nigeria continues to grapple with banditry in the northwest, insurgency in the northeast, and sporadic attacks elsewhere, claiming lives and disrupting communities.
VDM's latest intervention highlights deep public disillusionment. While some see it as reckless, others view it as a raw cry from citizens tired of empty promises. The Presidency and security agencies have faced repeated pressure to deliver tangible results.
As reactions pour in, the debate underscores a nation divided on leadership priorities. With elections on the horizon, such voices amplify calls for accountability on security and governance.
Whether VDM's blunt approach yields change or further backlash remains to be seen. For now, it has thrust insecurity back into the national spotlight, demanding urgent answers from those in power.
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