'Your Lords Are Being Kidnapped': VeryDarkMan Tells NBA Conference in Explosive Speech - Newstrends
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‘Your Lords Are Being Kidnapped’: VeryDarkMan Tells NBA Conference in Explosive Speech

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Social Media Influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM)

‘Your Lords Are Being Kidnapped’: VeryDarkMan Tells NBA Conference in Explosive Speech

Social media influencer addresses insecurity at legal gathering, triggers sharp divide among Nigerians over elite institutions and public platforms.

The invitation of social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to the 2026 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has ignited a fierce national debate, exposing deep divisions over who deserves a platform at Nigeria’s premier legal gathering. Otse appeared as a panellist on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, during a session focused on insecurity and the experiences of victims of violence, and was subsequently presented with a special award by the NBA—a recognition that has further polarised public opinion.

Addressing the controversy head-on, Otse explained that his invitation was not to lecture lawyers on legal matters but to share his firsthand experiences with insecurity across Nigeria. He told the gathering that there had been a lot of debate about why he was invited to the NBA conference, clarifying that he was not there to teach lawyers law but to share experience. He argued that insecurity had become a reality that even members of the legal profession could no longer ignore. Referring to the abduction of judges, the activist told the lawyers that this was not a topic of “may I, my lord” because their lords were being kidnapped. To substantiate his point, Otse cited the reported abduction of a judge travelling from Sokoto State, who he said was kidnapped in Kebbi on July 26 and spent about a week in captivity before regaining freedom.

During his session, Otse criticised what he described as inadequate media coverage of violent attacks. He stated that when the killings happened, the media had become lazy and did not really cover these killings and the results of these unknown gunmen. He told the conference that his perspective on insecurity came from direct exposure to the scenes of several attacks, describing witnessing the aftermath of a Sallah Day bombing in Borno State, alongside incidents linked to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and a post office. He recounted being the first respondent at Yelwata and also the first respondent when some women were killed some time ago, adding that he had seen blood and seen people burnt alive. On the June 13, 2025, attack on Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, which allegedly left more than 200 people dead and property worth millions destroyed, Otse claimed it was a retaliatory attack, stating that it was Fulani that attacked and that it was a retaliation because a Fulani boy was killed and these guys came back to attack. A prosecution witness in Federal High Court proceedings had previously testified that some disgruntled Fulani chiefs sponsored over 200 armed men to carry out the attack.

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Otse also linked insecurity to political interests, alleging that stolen public funds are invested in cattle and that security officials profit from the ongoing crisis through increased funding. He accused police and security agencies of contributing to kidnapping through information allegedly obtained at checkpoints, citing the Abuja-Lokoja highway where numerous checkpoints have failed to prevent abductions. He alleged that everybody knows who is rich, who is poor, and everybody knows the people that belong to the middle class, claiming that information from routine vehicle checks could subsequently be passed to criminals. He told lawyers that he thought the root of insecurity was politics, arguing that the people who benefit from it are the ones who cause it: the government, the police, and the military men, while the people are the sacrificial lamb.

After his speech, the NBA presented Otse with a recognition award. The moderator said on behalf of the association’s president that the award was presented to him for being there with them and sharing his own experience, but added a caution that when he is attacked, he should not kill but report to the police. The recognition prompted the moderator to invite Otse and other officials for a photograph. The presentation came despite a military representative cautioning Otse against making claims he could not prove during his speech.

The recognition has attracted significant public attention, with supporters celebrating the award while critics questioned the NBA’s decision to honour the outspoken activist. Lawyer Jerry Chiemeke condemned the NBA’s decision, saying that when he got called to the Nigerian Bar in November 2013, having someone like Very Dark Man on a panel at the annual NBA Conference was not something he would have ever envisaged. He questioned who should be in next year’s lineup, mentioning Peller, Saida Boj, and Geh-Geh. Chiemeke added that the Gwagalada Johnny Bravo has a checkered history of cyberbullying, affray, stalking, and brazenly flouting court injunctions. He argued that Otse is no activist, and even if they wanted to accommodate vigilantes or civic advocates, he could name 20 people who would have been more fitting. He questioned why the NBA would extend a banquet invite to someone who constantly spits in its face, asking whether this was what the Bar had become and declaring that they had hit the nadir.

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Ossai Ovie Success, a social media aide to the Delta State governor, berated the NBA for inviting Otse, saying that people who spent money and years in school, went to law school, sat for and passed bar exams, got called to the bar, and finally started working were then taxed and paid money in this hard economy to come for their conference and receive more knowledge from experienced people. He said that suddenly they arrived at the venue and discovered that the person paid to speak to them is a guy that sold penises on the internet, expressing his disappointment. The criticism has also referenced the NBA’s previous decision to invite singer Portable to perform at an annual conference, which was later reversed after public outrage. One commentator summed up the criticism by stating that the NBA inviting VeryDarkMan to sit on a security panel with the Inspector General of Police is the ultimate corporate surrender, arguing that thousands of lawyers paid massive registration fees to debate the rule of law while the leadership relies on an untrained internet activist to drive actual public accountability.

However, many Nigerians have rallied behind Otse, arguing that his views on insecurity reflect the reality of security for most Nigerians and that his influence commands respect beyond online criticism. One supporter wrote that they watched some of the video clips and agreed and were pleased for inviting him, adding that any lawyer that does not like that invitation does not know what he or she studied in school, explaining that after school of law, one needs to learn about real life and that he was invited to talk about real life experiences. Another supporter added that hope those criticising have received their own award or were they not even qualified to go on the podium, stating that this is VDM receiving award from people who matter and that everyone else crying online can continue, calling the haters toothless dogs who cannot bite. Another tweeted that the online hate is pure noise and that VDM’s real-world influence is unmatched, pointing out that seeing hundreds of NBA lawyers waiting in line just to get a photo with VeryDarkMan says everything. Others pointed out that lawyers at the venue crowded around Otse for photographs after his speech, with some channelling “VDM”.

A video circulating on social media captured the striking moment when lawyers crowded around Otse for photographs as he left the venue. The scene prompted further commentary about the disconnect between online criticism and in-person reception. One observer captured this sentiment by noting that the same people who spent years telling us pedigree is everything are now taking pictures with the man they called unserious, concluding that Nigeria will humble you. Another wrote about the country, asking what a country, and noting that just go viral and see yourself speak on top Nigerian platforms, observing that one does not even need to be an MSc or even BSc holder to speak on professional platforms, and that just getting money or going viral means Nigeria will always accommodate you.

The controversy has reopened questions about the NBA’s judgment and the role of non-traditional voices in elite institutional spaces. Supporters argued that field experience is valuable regardless of formal credentials. The conference, which began on August 21 and is scheduled to end on August 28, has brought together legal professionals to discuss issues affecting Nigeria’s legal system and society. Otse’s appearance has ensured that the conversation about who gets to speak on public platforms—and what qualifies as expertise—will continue long after the conference ends.

‘Your Lords Are Being Kidnapped’: VeryDarkMan Tells NBA Conference in Explosive Speech

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Nigerian Journalism Mourns: Eagle Online Publisher Dotun Oladipo Dies Suddenly at 56

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August 26, 2026

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Nigerian Journalism Mourns: Eagle Online Publisher Dotun Oladipo Dies Suddenly at 56 

The Nigerian media industry has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of veteran journalist, Publisher of The Eagle Online and former Politics Editor of PUNCH newspapers, Dotun Oladipo.

He died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the age of 56.

Oladipo’s death came as a shock to colleagues, friends and associates, with reports indicating that he had appeared to be in his usual state of health earlier in the day before suddenly taking ill at his office.

According to information obtained by NewsmakersNG, Oladipo was at his office when he began to feel unwell. He reportedly decided to drive himself to a hospital for medical attention but suffered what was suspected to be a heart attack during the emergency.

He was subsequently pronounced dead.

The circumstances surrounding his death have heightened the sense of shock among members of the journalism community, particularly because there had reportedly been little indication earlier in the day that the veteran journalist was facing any serious health challenge.

In fact, Oladipo had begun the day with his normal routine. He reportedly went to the gym with his wife earlier on Tuesday before proceeding to his office and carrying on with his regular professional activities.

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He was also active on social media during the day, further giving no apparent indication that anything was seriously amiss. His last known post was shared at about 2:50pm, only a few hours before news of his death began circulating among friends and professional colleagues.

A career devoted to journalism

Oladipo was a respected figure in Nigeria’s media industry, with decades of experience spanning journalism, newsroom management and digital publishing.

Before establishing The Eagle Online, he built a reputation as a thorough journalist and media professional who remained actively engaged with developments in politics, business, the economy and other major national issues.

His transition from conventional journalism to digital publishing also reflected the changing nature of Nigeria’s media landscape. Through The Eagle Online, Oladipo became part of a generation of journalists who embraced online journalism and helped strengthen the presence of professionally produced news on the digital platform.

Beyond his role as a publisher, he was known among colleagues for his engagement with fellow journalists and his continued interest in the development of the profession.

His death therefore represents not only the loss of a media entrepreneur but also the passing of a journalist who devoted a significant part of his life to news gathering, reporting and public communication.

The suddenness of his passing has left colleagues and associates struggling to come to terms with the loss, particularly given his apparent normal routine just hours before his death.

As tributes continue to pour in, the Nigerian journalism community is mourning the loss of a veteran whose professional journey spanned the era of traditional newsrooms and the rapid transformation into digital journalism.

Oladipo is survived by his wife, children and other family members.

Further details about his burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.

 

Nigerian Journalism Mourns: Eagle Online Publisher Dotun Oladipo Dies Suddenly at 56

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Stop Inviting African Dictators, Falana Tells NBA Over George Weah Invitation

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August 25, 2026

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Stop Inviting African Dictators, Falana Tells NBA Over George Weah Invitation
Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana

Stop Inviting African Dictators, Falana Tells NBA Over George Weah Invitation

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has strongly criticised the Nigerian Bar Association for inviting former Liberian President George Weah to address its annual conference, accusing Weah’s administration of undermining judicial independence and disregarding ECOWAS Court judgments during his tenure from 2018 to 2024. Falana made the remarks in a video posted on the NBA’s YouTube channel on Monday, a day after Weah delivered the keynote address at the conference held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Sunday. The senior lawyer urged the NBA leadership to stop inviting what he described as “dictators in Africa” to address Nigerian lawyers, stating, “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m delighted to be here. But let me say this, because you know I have to be frank with the audience. And this goes for the leadership of the Bar. I want to appeal that the Bar Association must stop—stop inviting dictators in Africa to come and address us.”

Falana alleged that under Weah’s presidency from 2018 to 2024, Liberia’s judiciary was effectively “captured,” forcing citizens to seek justice beyond the country’s borders at the ECOWAS Court. He stated, “Mr. Weah, George Weah, who was here yesterday and was talking about the judiciary: in his country, his regime captured the judiciary to the extent that they had to contact some of us outside the country to get legal redress in the ECOWAS Court.” The senior lawyer cited a case involving the Mandingo people of Liberia, whose landed properties were allegedly seized during the country’s civil war. According to him, the ECOWAS Court ruled in their favour, but Weah allegedly refused to enforce the judgment. “The ECOWAS Court gave them judgment. George Weah refused to comply with the judgment. The new government of Boakai has just set up a committee for the enforcement of that judgment,” he said.

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Falana also referenced the case of a former associate justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia who, according to him, was removed from office without proper justification. He said the matter was taken to the ECOWAS Court, which nullified the dismissal, awarded the judge $200,000, and ordered his reinstatement—but alleged that Weah again refused to comply. “Again, we went to the ECOWAS Court. The ECOWAS Court set aside his dismissal and awarded him $200,000. He was ordered to be reinstated. Mr. George Weah refused to comply with the judgment.” Against this background, Falana questioned Weah’s suitability to address Nigerian lawyers on democracy, judicial independence, and the rule of law. “Now, that is the man coming here to talk to us about the rule of law and democracy,” he remarked.

Falana further alleged that drug trafficking flourished during Weah’s administration, claiming that drug barons became influential during his tenure. He noted that on August 19, Weah’s former Vice President, Jewel Howard-Taylor, was arrested and is currently standing trial over an alleged $370 million drug trafficking case. This allegation comes amid a major drug scandal in Liberia, where in June and July 2026, authorities intercepted two massive cocaine shipments—237.6 kilograms at Roberts International Airport and 3,971 kilograms in Duazon, Margibi County—with a combined estimated street value of approximately US$336 million. The seizures have intensified concerns that transnational drug trafficking organisations are using Liberia as a transit point for cocaine destined for Europe. In response to the scandal, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai ordered the dismissal, suspension, and prosecution of several government officials and security personnel allegedly linked to the investigation, including officials from Roberts International Airport, the Liberia National Police, the National Security Agency, and the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency.

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Falana also criticised Weah over an incident involving his son, Timothée Weah, who represented the United States at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He alleged that Weah spent nine days in Qatar supporting his son during the tournament while using Liberian government resources. “So when you now have such a character… You know, during the last World Cup in Qatar, his son, Timothee, was playing for the United States of America, not for Liberia. This man left his country for nine days, took the money of that country to go and cheer his son in Qatar. So please, next time you want to invite African leaders, there are some of them that require inviting,” Falana said. He suggested more worthy African leaders for the NBA to invite, citing the president, vice president, and speaker of Namibia—all of whom are women—as well as the late former Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Falana’s criticism came shortly after Weah used his keynote address to call for stronger institutions and an independent judiciary. The former Liberian president urged lawyers and judges to remain impartial and uphold justice without fear or favour. Weah argued that democracy could not survive on “strong men” but required institutions capable of protecting democratic values. He warned against governments that present themselves as democratic while engaging in corruption or working with judges to weaken the rule of law. “Democracy does not survive on the strength of elections alone. Elections are merely the doorway into democracy, not the house itself. What keeps democracy standing are institutions, and among the most important of these are an independent judiciary and a principled Bar,” Weah said. He also recalled his decision to concede defeat in Liberia’s 2023 presidential election before the final results were completed, saying the interest of the country and the will of the people must always prevail over personal ambition, adding, “A tyrant with a certificate of return is still a tyrant.”

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who declared the conference open, similarly called for a courageous and independent judiciary, saying judges must uphold the truth irrespective of status or social affiliations. The 66th NBA Annual General Conference, held in Port Harcourt, was themed “Beyond Limits.”

Stop Inviting African Dictators, Falana Tells NBA Over George Weah Invitation

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UNIZIK Suspends Professor Over Viral Sexual Assault Allegation as Probe Continues

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August 25, 2026

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UNIZIK Suspends Professor Over Viral Sexual Assault Allegation as Probe Continues
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

UNIZIK Suspends Professor Over Viral Sexual Assault Allegation as Probe Continues

The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has suspended Professor Ifeanyi Sunny Odinye of the Department of Chinese Studies for three months with half salary following a preliminary investigation into a viral incident that saw the lecturer stripped and beaten by students over an alleged sexual assault attempt. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, approved the suspension following recommendations from a six-man Special Investigative Panel chaired by Prof. Emmanuel Obidimma, Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies, which submitted its preliminary report on 21 August 2026. The university has also referred the student at the centre of the incident, Chikamso Favour Okechukwu, to the Students’ Examination Misconduct Committee. Additionally, the Vice-Chancellor has extended the panel’s duration by two weeks to enable it to fully address its five-point terms of reference.

On 15 August 2026, a disturbing scene unfolded on the UNIZIK campus. A video that quickly went viral showed a female student emerging from Prof. Odinye’s office clutching his clothes and alleging that the lecturer had attempted to sexually assault her. The student was heard shouting that the lecturer had tried to rape her, prompting some persons—believed to be students—to pursue the academic, who had boarded a tricycle and exited the premises. The embattled lecturer was seen wearing only his academic gown at the time of the incident, apparently after the student had left with his dress. The video later showed at least six men hitting and stomping on the lecturer, who was completely stripped within the university premises. Reports indicate he was beaten severely. The female student, seen crying after reportedly running out of the lecturer’s office, was said to have pretended to agree to a sexual encounter until the lecturer had removed most of his clothes, after which she fled with them.

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In its preliminary report, the panel addressed two of the five issues contained in its terms of reference and indicted Prof. Odinye for contravening Section 5.8.3 of the university’s General and Academic Regulations (GAR). Specifically, he was found to have failed to record and submit the case of examination misconduct against Chikamso Favour Okechukwu on the prescribed Examination Misconduct Report Form, and to have returned the offending phone recovered during the examination to the student on the same day, in total disregard of Section 5.8.1(iv) of the GAR. Notably, the panel deferred consideration of the allegation of sexual harassment against the lecturer, stating that further investigations were required to establish the facts surrounding the claim.

The panel has been granted a two-week extension to address the remaining three issues for determination: whether there was sexual harassment of the student, the identities of the persons involved in the assault meted out to Prof. Odinye, and whether there was any incident of kidnapping in connection with the matter. The university’s Public Relations Officer, Comrade Aloysius Emeka Attah, stated that committee members are expected to conclude their findings with recommendations to the Vice-Chancellor before a final verdict is reached, including possible criminal prosecution.

Reports indicate that the incident may have stemmed from a prior encounter where the lecturer caught the student with a phone during an examination. What began as an examination misconduct case escalated dramatically, resulting in the lecturer being publicly assaulted, stripped, and subjected to what university management condemned as “jungle justice.” The Vice-Chancellor reiterated the stance of his administration’s prioritisation of staff and student welfare and zero tolerance for unethical practices while upholding the principles of transparency and fair hearing. The university stressed that the suspension was based on findings already established by the panel, while unresolved allegations will be determined after the completion of the ongoing investigation.

UNIZIK Suspends Professor Over Viral Sexual Assault Allegation as Probe Continues

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