Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has voiced deep concern over the arrest of social media activist Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and the broader implications for democracy, civil liberties, and national stability.
In a post on X on Saturday, Obi condemned the manner in which security forces apprehended Otse, describing the operation as forceful, opaque, and disturbingly reminiscent of an abduction.
“Though perhaps within the legal rights of security agencies, the arrest was executed in a way that unsettled many Nigerians,” Obi said.
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“The lack of transparency and civility not only creates fear but opens the door for criminal elements to replicate such tactics. When citizens cannot distinguish between lawful arrests and unlawful abductions, the integrity of our justice system and national security is dangerously compromised.”
The former governor recalled past instances where even members of the judiciary had suffered similar indignities, stressing that such disregard for legal processes weakens public trust in the rule of law.
If those entrusted with interpreting the law can be treated in such a manner, how can the ordinary Nigerian feel safe or protected under that same law?” he asked.
Obi also pointed to the ripple effects of the VDM saga on the Nigerian business environment. He referenced the reputational backlash faced by Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), which many believe is entangled in the controversy surrounding Otse’s arrest.
“At a time when investor confidence in Nigeria is already fragile, we must avoid actions that damage institutional reputations or erode public and international trust,” he warned.
“Could Mr. Otse not have been invited in a civil and transparent manner? Would that not have saved Nigerians and GTBank from the shame and losses now being experienced?”
Expanding his criticism, Obi raised alarm over allegations of the forced alignment of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) President with certain interests, cautioning against any attempt to muzzle youth voices or drag student leadership into political manipulation.
“The subtle silencing of young voices—whether by force, co-optation, or intimidation—is a dangerous trend we must not normalize. Nigeria’s youth must be allowed to express themselves freely without fear,” he asserted.
Calling for a restoration of democratic values, Obi emphasized the need for justice to not only be done but to be visibly done.
“We must return to a Nigeria where youth can speak boldly, judges are respected, and institutions conduct themselves with responsibility and decorum. That is the Nigeria we must rebuild,” he concluded.
 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has voiced deep concern over the arrest of social media activist Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and the broader implications for democracy, civil liberties, and national stability.){kind=link}