Oluwo of Iwoland Confers ‘Atayese of Yorubaland’ Chieftaincy Title on VeryDarkMan

Oluwo of Iwoland Confers ‘Atayese of Yorubaland’ Chieftaincy Title on VeryDarkMan 

Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been conferred with the traditional chieftaincy title of Atayese of Yorubaland by the Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu I. The honour was bestowed during a colourful ceremony at the Oluwo’s palace in Iwo, Osun State, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. The activist had travelled to the ancient town following a personal invitation from the monarch, arriving at Ibadan Airport ahead of the visit alongside coordinators of his Ratel movement from the Southwest region. The monarch had earlier described VDM as one of the country’s leading voices on transparency and accountability whose anti-corruption campaigns deserved “royal guidance,” setting the stage for what would become one of the most talked-about traditional ceremonies in recent times.

During the palace ceremony, the Oluwo personally adorned VeryDarkMan in traditional Yoruba attire (Aso Oke) before officially conferring the chieftaincy title upon him. The event was witnessed by palace chiefs, members of the Ratel movement, and other dignitaries who had gathered for the occasion, creating an atmosphere of celebration and cultural pride. The monarch, dressed in full traditional regalia, warmly received the activist and exchanged pleasantries with his guest while guests watched and recorded the ceremony for posterity. A particularly notable moment from the visit captured widespread attention online: VDM prostrated himself before the monarch in observance of Yoruba cultural tradition, a gesture reserved as a sign of deep respect for elders and traditional rulers. Videos of the moment quickly circulated across social media platforms, generating significant reactions from followers and observers who praised the display of Yoruba culture and tradition during the ceremony, with many commending the activist for honouring the customs of the land despite his often combative online persona.

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Addressing his guest and members of the Ratel movement, the Oluwo described Iwo as a peaceful town that welcomes people from every background and declared his official identification with the movement, referring to himself as the “King of the Ratels.” The monarch stated that anyone who chooses to live in Iwo would receive the same love and care he gives to his own children, emphasizing the town’s reputation for hospitality and warmth toward visitors. He also emphasized that Iwo remains the only town where residents favour the monarchy system of government above every other form of governance, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural values that define the ancient kingdom. The monarch urged the movement to expand its mission beyond social advocacy by embracing politics, arguing that meaningful reforms and justice could only be achieved through political power. “I want you Ratels to know there is now a king in the Ratel. I want your help to cleanse our dirty culture and remove the bad from it. Today, VDM has been chosen,” the Oluwo declared. “Keep moving, but you should not stop yourself from politics because that is the only way you can implement your dreams so that you can even control kings,” he added, offering what many interpreted as strategic counsel for the activist and his movement to extend their influence beyond social media advocacy into the realm of political governance.

The conferment has generated widespread debate online, with supporters celebrating the recognition while others questioned the significance and scope of the title. Some commentators argued the title should have been limited to “Atayese of Iwoland” rather than extending it to “Atayese of Yorubaland,” while others described the honour as recognition of the activist’s advocacy and public engagement. One supporter commented: “Dem say pikin wey wash him hand clean go dine/Eat with Elders,” reflecting the popular sentiment that VDM’s journey from social media critic to traditional title holder represents a remarkable rise. Others drew connections to VDM’s journey and influence, with the visit becoming one of the most talked-about moments online. Some users expressed caution, with one writing: “Trust no one,” while another urged VDM to stay grounded despite the recognition, warning that traditional honours could potentially compromise his critical voice. The mixed reactions underscore the complexity of VDM’s public persona and the varied expectations his followers hold for his advocacy work.

The honour comes about three months after VeryDarkMan announced a temporary break from all social media platforms following allegations that his online activities were distracting Nigerian youths from demanding accountability from the government. The social media commentator disclosed the decision in a video shared on his Instagram page, saying he stepped away following the allegations that his posts had become a source of distraction for young Nigerians who should otherwise be focused on holding the government accountable. “Because of the allegations and accusations that it is my posts that have been distracting the Nigerian youths from holding the government accountable, I have decided to not post again on social media during this period,” he said, explaining his rationale for the temporary withdrawal. “I’m going to take a back stage,” he added, indicating his intention to allow other voices to emerge in the online advocacy space during his absence from social media platforms. The conferment of the chieftaincy title adds another milestone to VDM’s public engagements, as the activist continues to play a prominent role in national conversations on transparency, justice and public accountability. The visit and chieftaincy conferment have since become one of the most talked-about topics online, with many awaiting further details about the significance of the title and the activist’s remarks following the honour, while others continue to debate the implications of a social media critic accepting traditional recognition from a monarch.

Oluwo of Iwoland Confers ‘Atayese of Yorubaland’ Chieftaincy Title on VeryDarkMan