VeryDarkMan Publicly Apologizes to Security Operatives Following Controversial NBA Conference Remarks
Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan) issues a public apology to the military, police, and immigration services, walking back his controversial "unknown gunmen" remarks made during the recent NBA conference.
Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has issued a public apology to members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police Force, Customs, and Immigration services over fiery remarks made during the recent 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Port Harcourt.
In a statement released on Friday, the activist admitted that his sweeping characterization of security personnel was uncalled for. During the high-profile NBA panel session, VDM had colloquially labeled security agents as "unknown gunmen", alleging that certain elements leaked movement details of travelers to criminal networks. The remarks drew intense nationwide backlash, including formal scrutiny from security authorities.
Reflecting on the "Unfair" Generalization
Walking back the blanket statements, Otse conceded that his delivery failed to distinguish between patriotic operatives and corrupt elements.
That speech was not fair, especially to the soldiers that are in the bushes fighting Boko Haram to protect our lands, to protect our lives, and to protect our families," VDM stated. "I don't think it's fair to say they are also the unknown gunmen, to be very honest, because these people have laid down their lives.
He extended a direct apology to the Chief of Defence Staff and the leadership of the police, immigration, and customs services, alongside the families of fallen heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Targeting the "Bad Eggs
Despite the remorse expressed over his generalized phrasing, the activist clarified that he was not completely backing down from his core allegations of institutional sabotage. He maintained that his original intention was to spotlight rogue elements and intelligence leaks within the security architecture rather than demoralize personnel on the frontlines.
Closing his address, VDM urged active duty personnel not to be discouraged by the controversy, reiterating support for those safeguarding the nation while issuing a stern warning to internal saboteurs.
