VERYDARKMAN IS NOW THE LAST HOPE OF THE COMMON MAN IN NIGERIA, DELE FAROTIMI SAYS
Human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has declared that social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has effectively become the last hope of many ordinary Nigerians seeking justice.
Farotimi made the remarks while reacting to the controversy surrounding VeryDarkMan's appearance at the Nigerian Bar Association's 2026 Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt.
He argued that rather than concentrating criticism on VeryDarkMan, Nigerians should examine the institutional failures that created the conditions for his growing influence.
VDM IS A REFLECTION OF THE SYSTEM
Farotimi argued that a country with effective police and courts would have less need for individuals such as VeryDarkMan to intervene in disputes and allegations of injustice.
He described VDM as an image in society's mirror, suggesting that his popularity reflects Nigerians' frustration with existing institutions.
Farotimi argued that many citizens now believe approaching influential social media figures can produce attention and intervention more quickly than pursuing cases through conventional channels.
He challenged the longstanding description of the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, arguing that the reality experienced by many Nigerians tells a different story.
According to Farotimi, VeryDarkMan has now assumed that role in the society Nigeria has created.
NBA APPEARANCE SPARKED CONTROVERSY
Farotimi's comments followed debate over the NBA's decision to feature VeryDarkMan at its annual conference.
Critics questioned whether the social media activist was an appropriate choice for such a professional gathering.
Farotimi, however, argued that VDM's presence should force lawyers, judges and Nigerian society to confront a larger question about why ordinary citizens increasingly seek justice outside formal institutions.
FAROTIMI WARNS MORE VDMs COULD EMERGE
Farotimi also warned that Nigeria could see more personalities similar to VeryDarkMan if confidence in the country's police, courts and justice system continues to deteriorate.
His remarks have generated considerable discussion online, with supporters arguing that VDM's popularity demonstrates widespread frustration with Nigeria's justice system.
Others maintain that social media activism cannot replace due process, professional law enforcement and independent courts.
Farotimi's central argument, however, is that VeryDarkMan should be viewed not simply as the problem but as a consequence of a society where many ordinary citizens believe conventional avenues for obtaining justice have failed them.
VNTV
