Social Critic VeryDarkMan Condemns Silence Over Peter Obi Attack in Edo, Warns of Democratic Threat
Social critic Vincent Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has expressed deep concern over the muted public and governmental reaction to the recent attack on Peter Obi in Benin City, Edo State. The incident, which occurred on February 24, 2026, involved gunmen opening fire at the residence of former All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman John Odigie-Oyegun, leaving the gate and several vehicles riddled with bullets. VeryDarkMan described this silence as a significant threat to Nigeria's democratic fabric, questioning why key institutions have remained unresponsive.
Attack Details and Lack of Official Statements
According to reports, the attack took place when gunmen targeted the premises, with Peter Obi later inspecting the bullet-damaged site. Police confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, but VeryDarkMan pointed out that no official statements have been issued by the presidency, the National Assembly, or security agencies like the Edo State police. He emphasized that this indifference signals a dangerous slide toward dictatorship, as accountability is being ignored in a critical incident involving a prominent political figure.
Public Desensitization to Political Violence
In a video shared on his Instagram page, VeryDarkMan lamented the lack of public outrage, noting that Nigerians have become desensitized to political violence. He argued that even if the attack had resulted in fatalities, the response might have been similarly subdued. Netizens echoed these sentiments, with comments highlighting how citizens quickly move on from such events, normalizing threats to political leaders' lives. This collective apathy, VeryDarkMan warned, undermines democratic principles and allows violence to go unchecked.
Broader Implications and Accusations
The incident has sparked broader discussions about political intimidation in Nigeria. Earlier, actor and lawyer Kenneth Okonkwo accused the government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of orchestrating the attack to silence opposition voices, claiming it was a planned move rather than a random act. While no deaths were reported, injuries occurred, and Okonkwo noted that security was withdrawn before the attack, raising suspicions. VeryDarkMan's call for accountability resonates with these concerns, urging Nigerians to demand transparency and action from authorities to safeguard democracy.
