Social media activist, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has apologised to the Nigerian military over comments he made about security agencies and the country’s insecurity.
VDM issued the apology during the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt after a military representative challenged his earlier remarks during a panel discussion.
The activist admitted that he may have made sweeping statements while discussing the security situation in the country.
“Before I answer the question, I would like to apologise to the Nigerian military. Maybe I generalised everything,” he said.
VDM said his comments may have been misunderstood but accepted responsibility for how they were perceived.
“I apologise if you took it out of context. But I’m sorry in between. I’m really, really sorry. Very, very sorry,” he added.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in protecting the country.
“I apologise to the military guys too. They are our heroes. We know their sacrifices,” VDM said.
Military challenges allegations
The apology came after a military representative objected to VDM’s broad allegations against security personnel.
During his earlier contribution, VDM had questioned the description of certain violent groups as “unknown gunmen”, while making allegations involving the military, police, immigration and customs.
He also alleged that some security personnel provide kidnappers with information about motorists travelling on major highways.
However, no evidence was presented at the conference to substantiate the allegations.
The military representative cautioned against attributing the actions of individuals to entire institutions and urged VDM to provide evidence for serious claims rather than making generalisations about security personnel.
VDM acknowledges military sacrifices
While apologising, VDM appeared to clarify that his criticism was not intended to undermine the Nigerian military or the sacrifices of soldiers involved in combating terrorism, banditry and other forms of insecurity.
“They are our heroes. We know their sacrifices,” he said.
He subsequently returned to the panel discussion after expressing regret over any impression created by his earlier comments.
VDM had explained that his presence at the NBA conference was aimed at sharing his experiences from communities affected by insecurity, rather than presenting himself as an authority on legal matters.
His appearance has sparked debate, particularly over his allegations against security agencies and the decision to feature him as a panelist at the conference.
His latest apology, however, signals a softening of his earlier position, particularly regarding the Nigerian military, as he acknowledged that his remarks may have unfairly generalised allegations against personnel of the Armed Forces.
