Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha, has strongly condemned the recent arrest of social media activist Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), describing it as an affront to Nigeria’s democracy and a dangerous precedent for civil liberties.
In a press statement released from his media office, Hon. Aguocha decried the forceful and opaque manner in which VDM was apprehended, likening it to an abduction rather than a lawful arrest. He expressed grave concern that such displays of excessive power undermine public trust in law enforcement and further erode the nation’s fragile democratic institutions.
“The method of arrest deployed against Mr. Vincent Otse was not only unnecessary but also uncivil and undemocratic,” Aguocha stated. “When the rule of law is bypassed in favor of intimidation, we begin to tread on a path that leads to tyranny.”
The federal lawmaker questioned why the authorities could not have extended a civil and transparent invitation to VDM rather than staging what many have described as a dramatic and intimidating clampdown. He warned that the implications of such actions go beyond individual liberties, as they damage the country’s international image and public confidence in justice systems.
Hon. Aguocha noted that a society that suppresses dissent and manipulates young leaders is one at war with its future.
“Our youth must not be made to live in fear of expressing their views,” he said. “We must encourage constructive criticism and protect the right to free speech as enshrined in our Constitution. Silencing voices through fear and force is not the way forward.”
Hon. Aguocha concluded by calling on the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding VDM’s arrest, ensure accountability where laws were broken, and uphold the values of democracy, justice, and human dignity.
“This is not just about VDM,” he said. “It is about the kind of nation we are building. We must resist the normalization of impunity and restore confidence in lawful, transparent governance.”
The lawmaker’s statement has sparked renewed debate over policing, freedom of expression, and the state of Nigeria’s democracy.
