Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has apologised to members of Nigeria’s security agencies over controversial comments he made during the Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In a video released on Friday, Otse acknowledged that his remarks had been too broad and could have offended soldiers, police officers, customs officials and immigration personnel who risk their lives to protect the country.
He particularly apologised to military personnel serving in conflict areas, saying his comments could discourage soldiers who are currently fighting insurgents and other security threats.
Otse had caused controversy at the NBA conference after referring to the military, police, immigration and customs personnel as “unknown gunmen” while discussing insecurity in Nigeria.
However, he explained in his latest video that he was not accusing every member of the security agencies of participating in criminal activities.
According to him, his criticism was directed at what he described as “bad eggs” within the security system whom he alleged were involved in corruption, sabotage and the leaking of sensitive information.
He admitted, however, that his choice of words made the criticism appear to target security personnel generally.
Otse said he owed an apology to the Chief of Defence Staff and other security authorities, particularly over the potential impact of his comments on soldiers serving in dangerous locations.
He also extended the apology to police officers, customs and immigration personnel, as well as families of security personnel who have died in service.
The activist acknowledged that many members of the security forces had made significant sacrifices while defending Nigerians and maintaining the country’s territorial integrity.
He urged such personnel not to interpret his criticism as an attack on their commitment or patriotism.
Despite the apology, Otse maintained his position that corruption and alleged sabotage exist within some sections of Nigeria’s security agencies.
He claimed that some officers compromise security operations by allegedly leaking information or assisting criminal networks.
Otse stressed that his intention at the NBA conference was to draw attention to such alleged misconduct so that the leadership of the various agencies could investigate and address the problem.
He also warned personnel allegedly involved in sabotage and activities that put their colleagues at risk that he would continue to speak out against them.
The activist further explained that his interactions with police officers had given him insight into some of the challenges within the Nigeria Police Force.
He said he had previously shared information with police authorities concerning suspected criminal activities and had encouraged officers to intervene where necessary.
Otse argued that his criticism should therefore not be interpreted as hostility towards the police or other security institutions.
The apology comes amid criticism surrounding Otse’s appearance at the NBA conference, where his participation and comments attracted public attention.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana had criticised the defence of Otse’s participation, arguing that specialised discussions at professional events should be handled by experienced speakers.
Otse subsequently defended his invitation and explained why he was selected to speak at the conference.
He later responded to the backlash through social media, including a video in which he appeared wearing a lawyer’s wig and gown.
The latest apology also follows another controversy involving Otse’s allegations about police officers at checkpoints.
The activist had alleged that some officers provided information about wealthy travellers to kidnappers. Police authorities challenged him to provide evidence to support the claim.
Otse responded by challenging the authorities to take him to court, saying he was prepared to present evidence supporting his allegations.
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In his latest video, however, he stressed that his criticism of alleged misconduct should not be confused with opposition to security personnel as a whole.
Otse concluded his apology by calling on Nigerians to support soldiers, police officers and other security personnel who are genuinely working to protect the country.
He said his remarks were not intended to undermine the morale of those risking their lives in the line of duty.
The activist maintained that while he would continue to criticise alleged corruption and sabotage, he recognised and appreciated the sacrifices of security personnel and fallen heroes.
The allegations made by VeryDarkMan against individuals or sections of the security agencies remain claims and should not be treated as established facts unless independently proven.
