VDM Apologises To Security Agencies Over NBA Speech

Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has apologised to soldiers, police officers, customs personnel and immigration officials over remarks made at the Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th Annual General Conference.

Otse issued the apology in a video shared on Friday, saying he had reflected on his comments and realised that his words were unfair to security personnel who risk their lives protecting Nigerians.

The activist participated in a conference discussion on insecurity in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he criticised the security system and described military, police, immigration and customs personnel as “unknown gunmen.”

He said his intention was not to discourage security personnel or portray every officer as involved in criminal activities. Rather, he wanted to draw attention to alleged misconduct, corruption and sabotage by some individuals within the security agencies.

According to Otse, some “bad eggs” within the security architecture could allegedly leak information and undermine operations, contributing to insecurity and deaths.

However, he acknowledged that the manner in which he presented his argument created the impression that he was generalising about all security personnel.

He said such a portrayal was unfair to soldiers and other officers who had sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

Otse therefore apologised to the Chief of Defence Staff and the leadership and personnel of the affected security agencies.

He also appealed to soldiers, police officers, customs officials and immigration personnel serving faithfully not to feel discouraged by his comments.

At the same time, Otse maintained his criticism of personnel he described as saboteurs, warning that those allegedly involved in compromising security operations should be held accountable.

His apology followed controversy over his appearance at the NBA conference and remarks made during the security discussion.

The controversy intensified after the Nigeria Police Force invited him to provide evidence supporting allegations that some officers at checkpoints pass information about travellers to kidnappers and bandits.

Otse had previously maintained that he would provide evidence through legal channels rather than submit it directly to the police.

His latest statement distinguishes between allegations against corrupt personnel and the wider body of security operatives.

The development has renewed discussion about public criticism of security institutions and recognition of officers serving under difficult conditions.

Otse maintained that his concerns about insecurity remain, but expressed regret that his choice of words may have affected patriotic personnel and families of fallen officers.