On May 5, 2025, Nigerian music producer and social commentator SAMKLEF NONI (@SAMKLEF) sparked a heated debate on X with a post questioning the priorities of Nigerians protesting for the release of activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The #FreeVDM protests erupted in Abuja following VDM’s arrest, but SAMKLEF’s comment, “Una no go protest for light and fuel wey dey affect una daily life—na VDM una wan protest for? Who do una?” highlighted a broader frustration with misplaced priorities in the country. As economic challenges like fuel scarcity, electricity issues, and inflation continue to plague Nigerians, the #FreeVDM protests have ignited a polarized conversation about activism and governance.
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“Una no go protest for light and fuel wey dey affect una daily life—na VDM una wan protest for? Who do una?”
— SAMKLEF NONI (@SAMKLEF) May 5, 2025
EFCC—or whoever picked VDM up—will release him once they’re done with him. Simple.
— SAMKLEF NONI (@SAMKLEF) May 5, 2025
He chose this path, and he has to face everything that comes with it.
You wan be messiah? Every messiah must face the cross.
No be only crown dey come with the calling—sometimes na cuffs too.…
Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), is a controversial social media activist recognized for his outspoken stance against corruption and injustice in Nigeria. On May 2, 2025, VDM was arrested under unclear circumstances while visiting a Guarantee Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja with his mother to inquire about his account. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) later confirmed the arrest. Protesters gathered near the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, chanting slogans like “He’s not a thief! Release VDM!” and holding placards demanding his release.
VDM’s supporters, including prominent figures like Labour Party’s Peter Obi and singer Davido, argue that his arrest was unjust. Obi condemned the manner of the arrest, likening it to a kidnapping, while Davido called for VDM’s immediate release. One protester told Pulse Nigeria, “We are here because VDM speaks truth to power. He shouldn’t be punished for using his voice.”
Read also: Samklef Calls Out Nigerian Police Over Alleged Harassment of Iyabo Ojo by VDM
SAMKLEF’s X post on May 5, 2025, at 17:04 UTC, criticized the #FreeVDM protests, pointing out that Nigerians face more pressing issues like unreliable electricity, fuel scarcity, and soaring costs of living. His post received a mix of support and backlash, reflecting the divided sentiment among Nigerians. Many users echoed SAMKLEF’s frustration. @TobiTimi9865 replied, “Nigerians are dull, data increased, no job opportunity, no good road, cars and bike are expensive, foodstuff expensive too.” Similarly, @Soliobesborn wrote,“ This is the simple truth.
Read also: Samklef Announces His Instagram is Back, Promises to Reveal Reporters!
A lot of misplaced priorities.” These reactions align with broader sentiments about Nigeria’s economic struggles, which noted public anger over lawmakers focusing on a pornography ban while ignoring economic hardship, job losses, and tariff hikes. However, not everyone agreed with SAMKLEF. @mingridavid defended the protests, stating, “I don’t like the idea and how they said the operatives came and arrested him at the bank, that act is so uncalled for.” Others, like @AnkangeT51028, resorted to insults, calling SAMKLEF “mumu” (foolish), while @banjo3929686281 accused him of having a personal vendetta against VDM related to a past case involving Naira Marley and Mohbad.
