The 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Sunday denounced the arrest of Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), describing the operation as one that has left many Nigerians deeply uneasy.
In his statement, Obi remarked that the manner of VDM’s arrest resembled an abduction, “a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements.”
He pointed out that when citizens begin to struggle to tell the difference between lawful arrests and abductions, “we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.”
“This trend is not new. We must recall that even our esteemed judges, the last line of defence for justice, have suffered similar indignities in recent years. When those who interpret the law are treated with such disregard, it is difficult to expect that ordinary citizens will feel protected under the law,” he added.
Obi expressed concern that such actions are now impacting the country’s economy and the overall business climate.
He noted, “The backlash directed at GTBank, allegedly linked to the circumstances surrounding Mr. Otse’s arrest, has had serious reputational consequences. At a time when investor confidence is already fragile, we must do all we can to avoid actions that tarnish institutions or undermine the trust of both citizens and the international community.”
He questioned whether a more civil and transparent approach could have been taken, saying, “One cannot help but ask: was it impossible to invite Mr. Otse in a civil, transparent, and legal manner? Would that not have spared Nigerians, GTBank, and our national image the unnecessary shame and losses we now witness?”
Obi also highlighted concerns over the alleged abduction of a NANS President, raising alarm about threats to the autonomy of student leadership and the gradual silencing of youth voices in the democratic process.
He stressed that Nigeria’s young people must not feel pressured, intimidated, or manipulated into political agendas they do not support. He warned that suppressing youth expression—whether through coercion, manipulation, or fear—is a dangerous precedent.
“We must return to a Nigeria where justice is done and is seen to be done without theatrics or abuse. A country where youth can speak freely, judges can serve with dignity, and institutions act responsibly. That is the Nigeria we must rebuild,” he concluded.