FG’s silence on VDM’s arrest fuelled Abuja protests – PDP
By Luminous Jannamike
Abuja, Nigeria – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has sharply criticized the Federal Government for its delayed response and initial silence surrounding the arrest of activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The arrest sparked widespread protests among young people in Abuja, fueled by a perceived lack of transparency and communication from the government.
According to Luminous Jannamike, writing from Abuja, the PDP's Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, stated in an exclusive interview with Vanguard on Monday that the government's silence exacerbated the situation. Osadolor highlighted that a significant majority, approximately 98%, of the protesters were largely unaware of the reasons for VDM's detention until shortly before the demonstrations erupted.
Osadolor questioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Police Force's delay of over 48 hours in clarifying the circumstances of VDM's arrest. He argued that prompt and transparent communication from these agencies could have potentially diffused the situation and prevented the protests from escalating. "Had there been timely communication regarding the reasons for his arrest, I doubt we would have witnessed the current protests," Osadolor asserted.
The PDP Youth Leader further attributed the unrest to a broader sense of frustration and disconnection felt by Nigeria's youth. He suggested that the youth perceive the government as insensitive to their concerns and unresponsive to their needs. "The urgency from the government to issue statements regarding his arrest suggests an awareness of the discontent brewing among the populace," Osadolor added, implying that the government recognized the potential for widespread unrest.
Osadolor emphasized that at this juncture, the primary focus should be on encouraging young people to be more vigilant and engaged in civic matters.
Osadolor Highlights Electoral Flaws, Economic Needs, and Justice Disparities, Calls for Renewed Civic Engagement
Speaking with palpable concern for the nation's trajectory, a prominent figure, identified as Osadolor, has issued a strong appeal for introspection and reform, urging Nigerians to critically examine the missteps that have led to the current socio-political landscape. A central focus of his address was the integrity of the electoral process, with Osadolor specifically condemning the practice of accepting cash bribes in exchange for votes. He argued that such actions, while seemingly inconsequential to some, have profound and far-reaching consequences, undermining the very foundation of democracy and contributing to a system ripe for corruption and mismanagement.
Turning his attention to the economic realities facing many Nigerians, particularly the youth, Osadolor emphasized the urgent need for a shift in mindset. He challenged the prevailing notion that the only path to success lies in securing public sector employment, advocating instead for the cultivation of creativity and the pursuit of entrepreneurial endeavors. Highlighting farming as a prime example of an accessible and valuable skill, he encouraged individuals to explore opportunities beyond traditional career paths, fostering self-reliance and contributing to a more diversified and resilient economy. He explicitly stated that voter education needs to be improved upon as the next national elections are fast approaching. He stressed that the youth need to understand that hard work should be their priority.
Beyond economic concerns, Osadolor also raised serious questions about the administration of justice and the upholding of constitutional rights. While acknowledging the gravity of the allegations leveled against VDM, including cyberstalking and money laundering, he voiced strong criticism of the apparent double standards in how such cases are handled, suggesting that some individuals are subject to a harsher legal scrutiny than others. He further decried the fact that many Nigerians remain incarcerated without formal charges, a blatant violation of their fundamental rights and a stark indictment of the shortcomings within the justice system. Osadolor went on to assert that the government has grown increasingly out of touch with the needs and concerns of the populace, leading to a widening chasm between those in power and the citizens they serve. He stated that this government has become so desensitized that their understanding of public sentiment seems disconnected from reality.
Adding to his critique, Osadolor expressed deep concern over the heavy-handed response of the military to recent protests, emphasizing that the peaceful nature of these demonstrations was often met with unwarranted force. He specifically lamented the confrontational approach adopted by soldiers, drawing unsettling parallels to the violent suppression of the #EndSARS movement, stating that it’s disheartening to witness soldiers confronting civilians in such a manner in the 21st century.
Concluding his address, Osadolor called upon all citizens to engage actively in the democratic process, expressing their opinions responsibly and leveraging their voting power wisely in the upcoming 2027 elections. He urged them to remember that change is possible, but it requires a collective commitment to holding leaders accountable and demanding a more just and equitable society. He urged citizens to express their feelings judiciously and to leverage their voting power wisely in the upcoming 2027 elections.