Peter Obi Slams VDM Arrest, Warns Against Silencing Young Voices

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the recent arrest of social critic Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), describing it as troubling and harmful to democracy.

Obi, in a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, May 4, criticized the manner of the arrest, which reportedly occurred on May 2 and was allegedly carried out by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He expressed concern over the use of force in apprehending VDM, stating that the approach resembled an abduction and risked creating fear among the populace. Obi noted that such actions, if left unchecked, could blur the lines between lawful arrests and unlawful abductions, thereby weakening national security and public trust.

“The oppression of young voices, whether through force, patronage, or intimidation, is a dangerous path that we must not normalize,” Obi wrote.

He warned that the arrest not only unsettled many Nigerians but also had economic consequences. Referring to the backlash faced by GTBank, where VDM was allegedly arrested, Obi said such incidents damage institutional reputations and erode already fragile investor confidence.

He further recalled past incidents where members of the judiciary were treated with disrespect, stressing that a system that undermines its judges cannot guarantee justice for ordinary citizens.

Obi also raised alarm over reports that the president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) was allegedly coerced, suggesting a broader attempt to stifle youth voices and democratic expression.

He concluded by urging a return to civility, transparency, and respect for the rule of law, reaffirming his vision for a reformed and just Nigeria.

“A new Nigeria is POssible,” he added.