Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), took to IG to address a contentious issue involving the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). In a video post, VDM highlighted the alleged extortion of traders at the Onitsha drug market in Anambra State, where NAFDAC reportedly demanded a ₦700,000 fee for the reopening of shops. The video, which has since gone viral, captures VDM’s passionate plea for justice, resonating with many who view the fee as an unjust burden on small-scale traders. The footage shows VDM, dressed in a white tank top and accessorized with a shell necklace, speaking to a crowd amidst a backdrop of cloudy skies and market activity.
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His message is clear: the imposition of such a high fee is not only financially crippling for the traders but also indicative of broader issues of fairness and accountability within regulatory practices. VDM’s post, captioned “VeryDarkMan no dey rest, always showing up for the people! He called out NAFDAC for being unfair to Onitsha drug market traders in Anambra 👏,” has sparked a wave of support and discussion online. The reaction to VDM’s video has been multifaceted. Some users, like @J.MIGHTY, praise VDM for his activism, contrasting his efforts with those of other public figures in Anambra State.
Read also: Verydarkman Leads Protest at NAFDAC Office, Demands For Action
Others, such as @Smith, express frustration with local leadership, while @Cleverly and @Khone applaud VDM’s role as a advocate for the marginalized. However, the post has also drawn criticism, with @Leke and @SAVs questioning VDM’s support for what they perceive as traders involved in the sale of fake drugs, a serious concern given NAFDAC’s mandate to ensure public health safety. This incident aligns with VDM’s history of using his platform to challenge perceived injustices, as seen in previous actions like his involvement in rescuing trafficked victims and his criticisms of other societal issues.
Read also: VeryDarkMan Protests NAFDAC’s Alleged Extortion in Onitsha
The date and time of this event, mark a significant moment in his ongoing advocacy. As the conversation unfolds, it underscores the tension between regulatory enforcement and the economic realities faced by small businesses, prompting calls for a reevaluation of NAFDAC’s policies and their impact on local communities.
