VDM Apologises to Soldiers, Police, Customs, Immigration Over NBA Remarks

Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has apologised to members of the military, police, customs and immigration services over remarks he made during the Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Otse issued the apology in a video shared on Friday after reflecting on his speech at the conference. He admitted that his description of security personnel as unknown gunmen could have unfairly affected officers who are genuinely risking their lives to protect Nigerians.

The activist said his original intention was to draw attention to alleged corruption, information leaks and sabotage by some individuals within the security agencies.

However, he acknowledged that the way he presented his argument made it appear as though he was accusing the entire security system of involvement in criminal activities.

Otse said he was particularly concerned about soldiers serving in areas affected by Boko Haram and other security threats. He noted that some military personnel have lost their lives while protecting communities and argued that such officers should not feel targeted by his comments.

He therefore apologised to the Chief of Defence Staff and asked that the apology be passed to soldiers serving in difficult and dangerous areas. He also extended his apology to the police, customs and immigration authorities.

The activist further expressed regret to families of security personnel who died while serving the country. He acknowledged that relatives of fallen officers could have felt hurt by his remarks, especially because their loved ones made personal sacrifices in the line of duty.

Despite the apology, Otse maintained that there are individuals within the security agencies whom he believes engage in misconduct and corruption. He said his criticism was directed at such people and not at officers who carry out their duties honestly.

He also said his interactions with some police officers had given him an understanding of the challenges within the police system. According to him, he has previously shared information with police personnel about security situations and has worked with some officers to help address problems.

Otse said he was concerned that his comments could discourage soldiers and other security personnel who are currently risking their lives. He urged genuine officers not to allow his controversial remarks to affect their commitment to protecting the country.

At the same time, he maintained his criticism of personnel whom he accused of helping criminals through activities such as sabotage, arms supply and leaking security information to terrorists. He warned that such individuals would eventually be held accountable if their alleged actions were established.

The apology followed widespread reactions to Otse’s appearance at the NBA conference. His participation and comments attracted criticism from some quarters, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana, who questioned the choice of speakers for specialised discussions at such a professional gathering.

Otse later defended his invitation to the conference and explained his reasons for accepting the opportunity to speak. He also responded to the criticism through social media, at one point appearing in a lawyer’s wig and gown in a video.

His latest apology also comes amid another controversy involving allegations he previously made about some police officers at checkpoints. Otse had claimed that certain officers allegedly shared information about wealthy travellers with kidnappers. The police challenged him to provide evidence, while the activist said he was ready to defend his claims in court.

In his latest video, however, Otse said his criticism of alleged misconduct should not be taken as an attack on all members of the security agencies. He admitted that he failed to communicate his position properly and may have generalised his concerns.

He ended by expressing support for security personnel who are genuinely working to protect Nigerians and called on them to remain committed to their duties despite the controversy surrounding his earlier comments.