In a heartfelt video message, VeryDarkMan’s brother has called on the public to pray for the controversial Nigerian social media activist, amid ongoing concerns about his well-being. The plea, made on a Sunday, underscores the gravity of the situation and the intersection of social activism with religious practice in Nigeria.
In a video that has quickly gained traction on social media, the brother of Nigerian social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM), whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, has made an emotional appeal for prayers.
The message comes at a time when VDM, known for his outspoken criticism of social and political issues, is reportedly facing significant challenges.
The video, shared by user @Olamide0fficial on X, features VDM’s brother urging viewers to “pray for VeryDarkMan” as they attend church or other places of worship. “It’s not easy,” he laments, acknowledging the difficulty of the situation.
This call to action is particularly poignant given VDM’s recent arrest on allegations of cyberstalking, following his complaints about unauthorized deductions from his mother’s bank account, an incident that sparked widespread public outcry and media coverage.
VeryDarkMan, a prominent figure in Nigerian civil and political rights, has a history of facing legal repercussions for his activism. His arrests, including one in March 2024 on cyberbullying charges and another in June 2024 on defamation allegations, have often been linked to his contentious online presence.
Despite these challenges, VDM has maintained a significant following, with public figures like Davido endorsing him and his nomination for the Silverbird’s Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year award in January 2024.
The timing of the prayer request, on a Sunday, leverages the cultural and religious significance of the day, aiming to mobilize a broad base of support. This strategy reflects a broader theme of community solidarity and the role of religious practice in supporting social activism in Nigeria.
The video has elicited a range of reactions on social media. Some users express solidarity and concern, with comments like “Prayers to him” and “He’s gonna be alright,” indicating a hopeful outlook.
Others, however, question the sincerity of the appeal, with one user noting,
“Them don start their emotional blackmail as usual once he don Dey cast them go come out Dey say keep am in prayers.” This skepticism highlights the polarized nature of VDM’s public image, where his activism is both celebrated and contested.
The arrest outside a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) branch in Abuja, which preceded this video, has also reignited debates about free speech and the treatment of activists in Nigeria. Omoyele Sowore, another activist, alleged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested VDM to silence his criticisms of corruption, further fueling public discourse.
As the situation unfolds, the call for prayers serves as a reminder of the personal toll of activism and the collective hope for resolution amidst ongoing legal and social battles.
