Popular social media activist, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has reacted strongly to allegations surrounding the circulation of an alleged audio involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

VDM spoke in a lengthy video posted on social media after comments credited to presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, accused him of disseminating a fake audio related to the President.

In the video, VDM claimed he began receiving several calls warning him not to return to Nigeria following the controversy surrounding the audio clip.

According to him, some associates advised him to remain abroad over fears that he could be arrested upon his return to the country.

Reacting to the development, VDM denied any wrongdoing and insisted that he had the constitutional right to criticise the government and comment on national issues.

He accused government officials of paying more attention to critics on social media instead of addressing pressing security challenges confronting the country.

The activist also criticised the Federal Government over insecurity, kidnappings and economic hardship, arguing that Nigerians were facing difficult living conditions across the country.

VDM further alleged that some individuals were attempting to create a narrative to justify possible actions against him because of his criticism of the administration.

He maintained that he would continue speaking on issues affecting Nigerians, particularly insecurity and governance.

During the emotional video, the social commentator repeatedly questioned why government officials were allegedly more vocal about online controversies than incidents of bandit attacks and kidnappings.

He also urged Nigerians to participate actively in the 2027 general elections, insisting that citizens must make decisions based on the performance of political leaders.

The controversy followed comments attributed to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, who reportedly stated that VDM should “face the weight of the law” over the alleged circulation of fake audio involving the President.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official confirmation from security agencies regarding any planned action against the activist.

There was also no independent verification of the alleged audio clip at the centre of the controversy (TRIBUNE)

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