Controversial social media activist VeryDarkMan has issued a stark warning to political thugs in Ibadan, declaring that future peaceful protesters will treat any disruption as a life-threatening attack and respond accordingly in self-defence. The statement came on Friday, 19 June 2026, following a recent violent clash during a protest in Oyo State.
VeryDarkMan, whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, addressed his followers in a lengthy video message after thugs allegedly attacked participants in the Ibadan protest. He displayed a bank transfer receipt of N200,000 allegedly paid to someone for attacking a shop during the demonstration.
“This is to inform the public that after what happened at the protest in Ibadan with the thugs that attacked us, anytime the Ratels come out for peaceful protest again, any thug that comes out to disrupt the protest we will kp@! you and there will be no case because it will be put down as self-defence,” VeryDarkMan declared.
The activist, known for his outspoken criticism of bad governance and his large online following, has positioned himself as a voice for frustrated Nigerians. His latest message reflects growing anger after repeated reports of hired thugs disrupting public demonstrations across the country.
Protests in Nigeria have a chequered history, often met with heavy-handed responses from security forces or attacks by suspected political enforcers. The Ibadan incident is the latest in a pattern that has left many citizens questioning the right to peaceful assembly. While some supporters praise VeryDarkMan for his boldness and defence of protesters, others worry that such inflammatory language could escalate tensions and lead to greater violence.
Public reactions have been sharply divided. Many online commentators expressed support, viewing his warning as a necessary pushback against thuggery, while others urged restraint, warning that the rhetoric risks crossing legal boundaries and could invite serious repercussions for the activist himself.
This episode highlights the deepening frustration among segments of the Nigerian population over governance failures, insecurity, and the suppression of dissent. As economic hardships persist, protests are likely to continue, raising urgent questions about how authorities and citizens can de-escalate confrontations and protect democratic rights.
VeryDarkMan has not commented further on potential legal implications of his statement, but the video continues to generate significant engagement across social media platforms. The coming weeks may reveal whether his strong message deters future attacks or intensifies the cycle of confrontation on Nigeria’s streets.
Ibrahim Onipede is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
