Nigerian social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), visited the ancient palace of Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo and Paramount Ruler of Iwoland, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. The visit, which was captured on video and shared widely on social media, has generated significant excitement among his followers and the general public.
VDM Prostrates in Yoruba Tradition
In the footage, VDM, accompanied by coordinators of his Ratel movement supporters from the Southwest region, is seen prostrating before the Oluwo as a mark of respect in line with Yoruba cultural tradition. The Oluwo, dressed in full traditional regalia, warmly interacted with the online critic as onlookers recorded the moment.
The video shows VDM lying flat on the ground as the traditional ruler walked into the palace, a gesture that has been widely praised by many Nigerians. The Oluwo had reportedly extended an invitation to VDM, though details of their discussions have not been publicly disclosed.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The engagement between the influential online personality and the traditional ruler has sparked a flurry of reactions across Nigerian social media platforms. Many fans and followers expressed admiration for VDM's display of respect. Comments on the video include:
- olokun_prophetess: "The living ancestors meet with kabiesi diety meet diety long live my presido, may the gods and goddess of osun state protect you for us iseee iseee."
- agwai_paulinious: "Dem say pikin wey wash him hand clean go dine/Eat with Elders."
- i_am_onyinye: "Nah ratels get internet today."
- papa456455: "VDM said if you wash your hands clean you will eat with the elders on a golden table."
- dbaddo2funny: "Body just dy sweet me like mad."
Prior Controversies and Legal Battles
This visit comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding VDM. In related news, Legit.ng reported that VDM had defended Femi Gbajabiamila against a widely discussed ₦400 million bribery allegation. Additionally, VDM recently taunted comedian Freedom Atsepoyi, known as Mr Jollof, after winning a court case in which Mr Jollof had sued VDM over allegations concerning his wife and Koko Butterfly Hotel. The court awarded VDM ₦35 million in damages, and VDM mocked Mr Jollof in a video posted on Instagram.
Significance of the Visit
The meeting between VeryDarkMan and the Oluwo of Iwo highlights the growing influence of social media personalities in traditional and political spheres. As of now, no further details about the outcomes of the visit have been released, but the videos continue to circulate widely, drawing attention to the cultural respect displayed by VDM.
