Activist Takes to Streets Over Growing Security Crisis
Popular social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan or VDM, has organized a public demonstration addressing the escalating security situation in Nigeria. The protest comes in response to the recent viral video showing an attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, though the activist has been vocal about national security issues even before this incident gained widespread attention.
Direct Challenge to Presidential Leadership
During the street protest captured in videos shared on his Instagram platform, VDM directly confronted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's handling of the country's security challenges. The activist specifically referenced the abduction of 33 girls in Kebbi State and questioned the president's decision to travel abroad while critical security situations remained unresolved at home.
VDM boldly questioned whether the president was still alive and functional, expressing doubts about Tinubu's awareness and capability in addressing the nation's pressing security concerns. The activist drew historical parallels, recalling Tinubu's previous criticisms of former President Goodluck Jonathan's administration during similar security challenges.
Youth Urged to Take Protective Measures
In his address to Nigerian youth, VDM delivered a stark message about self-protection. He explicitly encouraged young people to take up arms and defend themselves against potential attacks, emphasizing that government protection might not be sufficiently reliable given the current security landscape.
The protest featured approximately six participants holding banners with various inscriptions that highlighted specific concerns. One banner directly questioned the president's vitality, while others demanded the safe return of abducted girls to their families. Additional signage pointed to the widespread violence affecting multiple regions including Jos, Benue, Maiduguri, and Kaduna, characterizing the entire nation as "bleeding."
Public Support and Social Media Reaction
The activist's bold stance generated significant support across social media platforms. Followers praised his courage and commitment to speaking truth to power, with many encouraging him to take his protest directly to the National Assembly to ensure politicians directly witness public discontent.
Social media comments reflected widespread frustration with the current security situation. One user noted that "history is just repeating itself," while another commended VDM's boldness, stating "May our ancestors bless you my President. Your boldness is commendable." Other comments highlighted public perception that the security situation has deteriorated significantly within two years of the current administration.
This protest represents the latest in a series of public criticisms VDM has directed toward the Tinubu administration, demonstrating ongoing civil society pressure regarding Nigeria's security challenges. The activist continues to use his platform to demand accountability and action from national leadership while encouraging citizen awareness and self-protection measures.
