Obi speaks on VeryDarkMan arrest, says criminals may copy security agents’ tactics

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has raised alarm over recent events in Nigeria, warning they pose a serious threat to the country’s democratic values.

In a Facebook post on Sunday, Obi expressed concern following the arrest of popular activist Martin Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan, and the reported abduction of a factional leader of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

“The recent developments in our nation continue to raise serious concerns about the direction we are headed as a democracy. The tension in the land, aggravated by hardship, is being needlessly fueled by our attitude to the rule of law and human rights,” Obi wrote.

He criticized the manner in which Otse was apprehended, arguing that although security agencies may have operated within legal bounds, their approach lacked openness and respect for civil rights.

“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,” he said.

Obi warned that blurring the lines between lawful enforcement and abduction could undermine national security and erode accountability. He drew parallels with past incidents involving judicial officers, noting that disrespecting the judiciary diminishes public confidence in the justice system.

“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,” he said.

The former governor also pointed to the economic fallout from such actions, citing the backlash against GTBank, reportedly linked to Otse’s arrest, as damaging to institutional reputations.

“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,” Obi added.

He questioned whether the activist could have been invited for questioning in a more transparent and civil manner, sparing individuals, organizations, and the country from reputational harm.

Turning to the reported abduction of the NANS President, Obi described the development as equally alarming.
“If true, it raises critical questions about the independence of student leadership and the subtle erosion of young voices in our democracy. Nigeria’s youth should not feel coerced, silenced, or absorbed into political agendas that do not reflect their will,” he stated.

Obi cautioned against the normalization of silencing youth through intimidation, patronage, or force. He concluded with a call for a return to fairness, accountability, and responsible governance.

“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. A new Nigeria is possible,” Obi declared.