My NBA invite based on experience, not books, VDM replies Falana

Social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has directly addressed criticism from prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana concerning his invitation to speak at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference. Falana had questioned the NBA's decision to invite Otse, suggesting that speakers on specialized topics like national security should possess relevant expertise.

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The problem these people have is that the son of a nobody was invited to come and speak where elites are seated.

Otse, speaking in a video shared on his social media, characterized Falana's remarks as indicative of "classism." He believes his invitation was challenged because of his background and status compared to other attendees. "The problem these people have is that the son of a nobody was invited to come and speak where elites are seated," Otse stated.

He emphasized that his practical experience with insecurity, gained over recent years, provides him with unique insights. "This is not about book. It’s not about book. It’s about experience," Otse asserted, arguing that his lived encounters with insecurity surpass the knowledge of some "security experts."

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This is not about book. It’s not about book. It’s about experience.

Otse explained that his participation in the conference was intended to highlight the perspectives of ordinary Nigerians who are disproportionately affected by insecurity. "I spoke on behalf of the poor masses. I spoke on behalf of the poor people. I spoke on behalf of the people that don’t have a voice," he said. He expressed disappointment with Falana's stance, noting, "I wasn’t expecting this angle from Femi Falana SAN, but well, it is what it is."

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I spoke on behalf of the poor masses. I spoke on behalf of the poor people. I spoke on behalf of the people that don’t have a voice.