The Nigerian Police have detained social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, following his controversial video in which he donned a police uniform.
The incident has ignited significant public discourse about the appropriateness of such attire and the implications of impersonating law enforcement.
Deji Adeyanju, a prominent human rights lawyer, disclosed the news via a post on X late Thursday evening.
“Our client, VDM has been detained after honouring police invitation just like yesterday,” he stated, highlighting VeryDarkMan’s ongoing engagement with the police despite the contentious nature of the situation.
He emphasized, “VDM has been consistent in saying the Nigerian Police are our friends even when we all know they are not.”
The trouble began when VeryDarkMan shared a video portraying himself as a “Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) of the Online Division,” humorously engaging with his followers.
However, the police condemned his use of the uniform, deeming it inappropriate and misleading. Following widespread backlash, he released an apology video on Thursday, expressing his regret.
“Back from the police station where I was interrogated based on the post I made wearing a costume that the police claim is similar to theirs. I didn’t intend to impersonate the police in any way and I tender my unreserved apologies to the Nigeria Police Force and the office of the Inspector General of Police,” he stated.
Recall that VeryDarkMan urged the public to seek proper authorization before donning police uniforms to avoid misunderstandings or legal issues.