Nigeria Police invite activist VeryDarkMan, question AIG over allegations
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Nigeria's police force has invited social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), for questioning.
- Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Moshood Jimoh is also being questioned over allegations made by VDM.
- The police stated that the activist needs to substantiate his claims and that the matter is sub judice, warning against media trials.
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the invitation of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and the questioning of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Moshood Jimoh regarding allegations VDM raised. The Force stated that AIG Jimoh, who heads the Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Abuja, was formally invited for questioning.
According to the police, the Force CID issued a letter of invitation to Otse on July 30, 2026, requesting his appearance to substantiate the claims he made publicly. These actions are described as part of the police's internal accountability mechanisms and commitment to investigating credible allegations of misconduct, regardless of the officer's rank or the complainant's status.
The statement follows recent public comments by VDM concerning the AIG in charge of Zone 2, Lagos, and an ongoing criminal matter. The police clarified that the criminal case VDM referenced has already been investigated, filed in court, and is now sub judice. They stressed that the matter should not be decided through media campaigns or public commentary.
"The Force will not try this case in the media, nor will it allow its outcome to be shaped by public campaigns or commentary seeking to prejudge the officers or parties involved," the statement read. The police reaffirmed that their disciplinary processes are guided by the Constitution and relevant laws, applying equally to all officers. While acknowledging citizens' rights to freedom of expression and demanding accountability, the Force cautioned against defamation or making unverified allegations.
The police urged VDM to honor the invitation and participate in the investigation, allowing the court to determine the outcome of the separate criminal matter. They assured that any officer found culpable would face sanctions, while deliberately false allegations made to damage reputations could lead to legal action. The Nigeria Police Force emphasized its foundation in law, discipline, and accountability, stating that no officer is above the law and no genuine complaint is ignored.
The Force will not try this case in the media, nor will it allow its outcome to be shaped by public campaigns or commentary seeking to prejudge the officers or parties involved
Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.