Your Sacrifice Matters — VeryDarkMan Apologises to Troops Over NBA Conference Outburst

Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has apologised to Nigerian soldiers, police officers, customs and immigration personnel over his controversial remarks at the Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

VDM, in a video shared on Friday, admitted that his description of security personnel as “unknown gunmen” during a discussion on insecurity was unfair to officers genuinely risking their lives to protect the country.

The activist said his comments were directed at alleged “bad eggs” within the security agencies whom he accused of corruption, information leaks and sabotage, rather than the entire security forces.

He particularly apologised to soldiers fighting Boko Haram and other insurgents in remote areas.

“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 said he realised that his comments could discourage soldiers and other security personnel who sacrifice their lives for Nigerians.

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He also apologised to the Chief of Defence Staff and urged him to extend his apology to troops in the field.

The activist extended the apology to the police, customs and immigration authorities, as well as families of fallen security personnel who may have felt offended by his remarks.

According to him, although corruption and misconduct exist within the security agencies, there are still many officers who are committed to protecting Nigerians.

He maintained that his original intention was to draw attention to alleged sabotage within the security system, including claims of information being leaked to criminals and terrorists.

VDM, however, acknowledged that the way he presented his argument made it sound like a general accusation.

“By passing that speech, like I said, it seems like I was generalising and it’s not fair to the fallen soldiers.”

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Despite his apology, the activist maintained his criticism of personnel allegedly involved in sabotage, arms supply and leaking information to terrorists.

He warned such individuals that “their days are numbered,” while urging patriotic officers not to be discouraged by his comments.

The apology comes amid criticism of VDM’s appearance and comments at the NBA conference. Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, had criticised the decision to feature the activist in a specialised discussion, arguing that experienced speakers should handle such sessions.

VDM had subsequently defended his invitation and later mocked the backlash by appearing in a lawyer’s wig and gown.

His latest apology also follows controversy over his allegation that some police officers at checkpoints allegedly provide information about wealthy travellers to kidnappers. The police challenged him to provide evidence, while VDM dared the authorities to take him to court, promising to present his evidence.

In his latest video, however, he clarified that his criticism was not intended to portray the security agencies as enemies of Nigerians.

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He urged Nigerians to support soldiers, police officers and other security personnel genuinely working to protect the country.

“To the patriots, to the heroes, to our fallen heroes that have died to protect this country… I am really, really sorry.”

He concluded by telling security personnel in the field to remain focused and continue fighting for the country.