Yemi Obafemi
Peter Obi Condemns Arrest of VeryDarkMan, Warns of Rising Threats to Rule of Law and Democracy
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the recent arrest of social media activist Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, describing it as a disturbing display of force that undermines the rule of law and threatens Nigeria’s democratic integrity.
In a statement on his X handle, Obi said such action could damage investor confidence in the country.
The statement reads: “ The arrest of Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), though perhaps within the legal rights of security agencies, was carried out in a manner that left many Nigerians unsettled.
“The display of force, lacking in transparency and civility, closely resembled an abduction, a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements. If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.
“This trend is not new. We must recall that even our esteemed judges, the last line of defence for justice, have suffered similar indignities in recent years. When those who interpret the law are treated with such disregard, it is difficult to expect that ordinary citizens will feel protected under the law.
“Moreover, these methods are beginning to affect our economy and business environment. The backlash directed at GTBank, allegedly linked to the circumstances surrounding Mr. Otse’s arrest, has had serious reputational consequences. At a time when investor confidence is already fragile, we must do all we can to avoid actions that tarnish institutions or undermine the trust of both citizens and the International community.
“One cannot help but ask: was it impossible to invite Mr. Otse in a civil, transparent, and legal manner? Would that not have spared Nigerians, GTBank, and our national image the unnecessary shame and losses we now witness?
He also expressed concern over allegations of coercion involving the president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), saying it threatens the independence of student leadership and suppresses youth voices.
“The oppression of young voices, whether through force, patronage, or intimidation, is a dangerous path that we must not normalize,” Obi warned.
“We must return to a Nigeria where justice is done and is seen to be done without theatrics or abuse. A country where youth can speak freely, judges can serve with dignity, and institutions act responsibly. That is the Nigeria we must rebuild”, he concluded
