Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has declined to honour a police invitation to Lagos, citing fears for his personal safety as long as Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Moshood Jimoh remains in charge of Zone 2. The refusal escalates a public standoff between the activist and the Nigeria Police Force over allegations of misconduct in a high-profile murder investigation.
Background: The Ajiran Murder Cases and VDM's Allegations
The controversy stems from VDM's weeks of public accusations against the Lagos police command regarding the handling of two murder cases in the Ajiran area of Eti-Osa. The victims, Sheriff Salami (killed in 2023) and Prince Ademola Akinloye (killed in 2024), are central to a criminal investigation that VDM claims was compromised. According to Premium Times, VDM has alleged that businessman Ahmed Akanbi was wrongly linked to the murders, that suspects were tortured during questioning, and that confessional statements implicating Akanbi were obtained under duress. He says he possesses documentary evidence supporting his claims and has consistently demanded an independent investigation.
VDM's Refusal and Demands
In a video posted on his social media platforms, VDM was unequivocal about his decision. "I am not coming to Lagos," he said. He elaborated: "If there were another AIG in charge of the Lagos command, I would go. But as long as AIG Moshood Jimoh remains there, I will not honour any invitation from Lagos regarding this matter." The activist expressed concern that false allegations could be fabricated against him or that items could be planted among his belongings if he travelled. He announced plans to petition the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to have the suspects in the case transferred to Abuja, arguing they may not be safe in Lagos either.
Police Response: Separating Criminal Case from Internal Probe
The Nigeria Police Force responded through its spokesperson, CSP Ani Iniedu, drawing a clear distinction between the court case and the internal allegations against AIG Jimoh. The Force stated that the Ajiran murder case had already been investigated and charged to court on the advice of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, making it sub judice. "Its adjudication rests solely with the judiciary," the statement said, adding that the Force would not allow public pressure to influence ongoing court proceedings.
Separately, the Force confirmed that the AIG in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) had invited Jimoh for questioning over the misconduct allegations. The FCID headquarters in Abuja also sent a formal invitation to VDM to appear and substantiate his claims before investigators. As reported by Vanguard on Thursday, August 6, the Nigeria Police Force said the parallel investigations demonstrate its commitment to ensuring accountability, regardless of the rank of the officer involved or the public profile of the complainant. The Force added that complaints must be handled through established channels, including the FCID, the Force Complaint Response Unit, and the office of the IGP.
Official Statement on Accountability
The Force stated: "Allegations must be formally submitted, investigated and objectively assessed. Any officer found culpable following investigation will face sanctions in accordance with the law." This statement underscores the police's position that due process will be followed in both the criminal case and the internal probe.
Previous Legal Victory for VDM
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the criminal case against VDM by the Nigeria Police had been struck out. The court reportedly found insufficient evidence to sustain the charge of impersonation after he appeared in a police uniform in one of his videos. VDM expressed excitement over the ruling, describing it as a major victory after nearly two years of legal battle. This recent development adds context to his current stance, as he has previously faced legal challenges from the police.
Implications and Next Steps
VDM's refusal to appear in Lagos sets the stage for a potential legal and administrative confrontation. His petition to the IGP to transfer the suspects to Abuja could shift the venue of the investigation, while the FCID's invitation to him in Abuja offers an alternative platform for him to present his evidence. The police's insistence on formal channels suggests that the resolution will depend on procedural compliance. As the standoff continues, observers will watch whether the IGP intervenes and whether the FCID's probe into AIG Jimoh yields any disciplinary action.
