VeryDarkMan Biography
VeryDarkMan Biography – Discover VeryDarkMan’s (Martins Vincent Otse) rise from fitness model to Nigeria’s most controversial activist. Learn about his battles with celebrities, arrests, NGO, and November 2025 airplane fight.
VeryDarkMan Biography: Nigeria’s Fearless Digital Activist
Martins Vincent Otse, universally known by his social media moniker VeryDarkMan (VDM), is one of Nigeria’s most polarizing and influential digital activists. Born on April 8, 1994, in Kaduna, Nigeria, this 31-year-old social media influencer, critic, and philanthropist has positioned himself as a fearless advocate for consumer rights, accountability, and justice in Nigeria. His uncompromising approach to calling out celebrities, government officials, corporations, and anyone he perceives as exploiting ordinary Nigerians has earned him both passionate supporters who view him as a heroic truth-teller and fierce critics who see him as a reckless troublemaker.
VDM’s signature style is unapologetic confrontation. Armed with nothing but his smartphone, social media platforms, and an apparently inexhaustible willingness to court controversy, he has taken on some of Nigeria’s biggest names—from crossdressing socialite Bobrisky to acclaimed lawyer Femi Falana, from gospel singer Mercy Chinwo to relationship coach Blessing CEO. His catchphrases “Don’t Play” and “You’ll learn the hard way” have become rallying cries for his millions of followers who see him as their champion against injustice and exploitation.
What distinguishes VDM from traditional activists is his complete rejection of political correctness or strategic diplomacy. Where others might carefully word their criticisms or work through institutional channels, VDM goes directly to social media with explosive accusations, leaked audio recordings, and public call-outs that generate immediate attention and force responses from those he targets. This approach has made him simultaneously one of Nigeria’s most effective activists and one of its most legally embattled social media personalities.
His influence skyrocketed in June 2023 when Nigerian music superstar Davido publicly endorsed him on Instagram, lending mainstream celebrity credibility to his activism. By January 2024, he was nominated for Silverbird’s Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year, formal recognition of his undeniable impact on Nigerian digital culture.
However, VDM’s confrontational activism has come at significant personal cost. He has been arrested multiple times on charges including cyberbullying, cyberstalking, and defamation. He faces multiple lawsuits, including a N1.1 billion defamation suit from gospel singer Mercy Chinwo and a N500 million suit from Mr. Jollof’s wife. Most dramatically, on November 17, 2025—just hours ago as of this writing—VDM was involved in a physical altercation with comedian Mr. Jollof aboard a United Nigeria Airlines flight, resulting in both men being deboarded and handed to airport security.
VDM’s story is one of transformation—from fitness model and aspiring actor to one of Nigeria’s most influential and controversial voices. Whether you view him as a courageous activist holding power accountable or as a cyberbully hiding behind claims of justice, one thing is undeniable: Martins Vincent Otse has made himself impossible to ignore in contemporary Nigerian society.
Early Life & Education: From Kaduna to Lagos
Martins Vincent Otse was born on April 8, 1994, in Kaduna, Nigeria’s major northern city known for its cultural diversity and religious complexity. Though born in Kaduna and spending significant formative years there, VDM originates from Edo State in southern Nigeria, specifically from the ancient Benin City, known for its rich cultural heritage and respected Bini traditions. This dual geographic identity—northern upbringing with southern roots—gave him exposure to Nigeria’s ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity, shaping his ability to navigate and comment on issues affecting different parts of the country.
His family background was modest. His father worked as a mechanic, and his mother served as a caregiver—occupations that provided stable but certainly not luxurious living conditions. Growing up in such an environment taught young Martins the value of hard work, resilience, and the importance of speaking up when one sees injustice. These early lessons would later manifest in his activism, which consistently focuses on defending ordinary Nigerians against exploitation by the wealthy and powerful.
VDM was raised in a Christian household where values like integrity and boldness were deeply ingrained. These religious and moral foundations are evident in his activism, which often carries moral undertones even when addressing secular issues. His willingness to confront what he sees as immorality—whether crossdressing, fake products, or corruption—reflects someone who genuinely believes in absolute standards of right and wrong.
Regarding his formal education, there are conflicting reports. Some sources indicate he holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), one of Nigeria’s premier universities. This would place him among Nigeria’s educated elite and provide him with frameworks for understanding business practices, economics, and organizational behavior—knowledge useful in his consumer rights advocacy.
However, other sources suggest his highest formal education is an Ordinary School Leaving Certificate (essentially completion of primary school), which would indicate he did not complete secondary or tertiary education. This discrepancy has never been definitively resolved, as VDM tends to keep certain personal details private, focusing public attention on his activism rather than his credentials.
What’s undeniable is that regardless of formal education level, VDM possesses sharp intelligence, strong communication skills, and an intuitive understanding of social media, public relations, and mass psychology. These skills, whether formally taught or self-developed, have proven far more valuable to his career than any university degree.
During his youth and early adulthood, VDM worked on developing his physique, eventually becoming a fitness model. This background in fitness and physical development is still evident in his muscular build and occasional fitness-related content. He also had minor roles in Nigerian TV series including Hush, Tinsel, and The Johnsons—popular shows that gave him early exposure to Nigeria’s entertainment industry and media production, experiences that would later inform his understanding of how to create compelling content.
Career Journey: From Fitness Model to Digital Revolutionary
Early Career: Fitness Modeling and Minor Acting (Pre-2020)
Before becoming Nigeria’s most controversial activist, Martins Vincent Otse tried his hand at traditional entertainment. As a fitness model, he showcased his physique and promoted fitness culture, building an initial social media following interested in health and wellness content. His muscular build and dedication to fitness gave him credibility in this niche.
He also secured minor acting roles in several popular Nigerian TV series including Hush, Tinsel (one of Africa’s longest-running TV series), and The Johnsons (a beloved family sitcom). While these roles were not lead parts and didn’t make him a star, they provided valuable experience in entertainment, media production, and understanding how Nigeria’s entertainment industry operates—knowledge he would later weaponize in his critiques of celebrities.
However, fitness modeling and minor acting roles were not providing the platform or impact Martins sought. Like many talented but not yet discovered individuals in Nigeria’s oversaturated entertainment space, he was struggling to find his unique voice and break through to mainstream recognition.
The Pivot to Activism (2020-2022)
Around 2020, Martins made a strategic pivot that would change his life. He began posting reaction videos and opinion pieces on social issues on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. His content style was direct, loud, and unapologetically confrontational. Rather than diplomatic critique, he delivered blunt assessments of public figures, celebrity behavior, and societal hypocrisy.
His unique selling proposition was simple: he would say what others were thinking but were too afraid to say publicly. While many Nigerians privately criticized celebrities for fake lifestyles, questionable products, or moral hypocrisy, few had the courage (or recklessness) to publicly call them out by name. VDM filled this void.
His self-styled moniker “VeryDarkMan”—which humorously references his dark complexion—became a personal brand representing raw truth, strength, and unfiltered critique. The name itself became a form of activism, reclaiming and celebrating dark skin in a society that often privileges lighter complexions.
The Breakthrough: Celebrity Confrontations (2022-2023)
By 2022, VDM had gained mainstream attention through his controversial videos, particularly those targeting Nigerian celebrities. His strategy was ingenious: identify high-profile figures who were vulnerable to criticism—those selling questionable products, living hypocritical lifestyles, or making statements that contradicted their actions—and publicly expose them.
Some of his most notable early confrontations included:
Bobrisky: In April 2023, VDM launched a public attack on Nigerian socialite and crossdresser Bobrisky (Idris Okuneye), accusing him of “promoting a culture of deceit and materialism.” VDM questioned the legitimacy of Bobrisky’s wealth and criticized his influence on youth. The exchange became one of the most followed social media feuds in Nigerian history. VDM released leaked voice notes attributed to Bobrisky and relentlessly criticized his lifestyle. Bobrisky dismissed VDM as “just one hungry guy looking for clout with my name,” but the sustained attention significantly boosted VDM’s profile.
Iyabo Ojo: VDM accused actress Iyabo Ojo of advertising counterfeit products, including perfumes, to her followers. The confrontation sparked debates about celebrity endorsements and accountability for products promoted to fans.
Blessing CEO: VDM questioned the relationship advice of Blessing CEO, a popular relationship therapist and life coach, accusing her of misinforming followers. The public dispute featured heated exchanges and further established VDM as someone willing to challenge any public figure regardless of their status or following.
These confrontations, while controversial, resonated with ordinary Nigerians frustrated by what they perceived as celebrity exploitation and fake lifestyles. VDM’s willingness to name names and provide receipts (evidence) gave his accusations credibility beyond mere gossip.
The Davido Endorsement and Mainstream Recognition (June 2023)
The turning point came in June 2023 when Nigerian music superstar Davido followed VDM on Instagram and publicly endorsed him. Davido, one of Africa’s biggest music stars with tens of millions of followers, lending his credibility to VDM was transformative. It signaled to mainstream audiences that VDM’s activism had legitimacy beyond controversy-seeking.
Following this endorsement, VDM’s follower count exploded. Media outlets began covering his activities as news rather than just social media drama. By January 2024, he received a nomination for Silverbird’s Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year—formal industry recognition of his undeniable impact.
Expanding Activism: Consumer Rights and Institutional Accountability (2024-2025)
As VDM’s platform grew, his activism evolved beyond celebrity gossip into more substantive issues:
NAFDAC Confrontation (May 2025): VDM visited Ogbo Ogwu market in Onitsha and called out the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for allegedly extorting traders who had to pay money before conducting business. NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, accused VDM of “inciting Onista bridge head drug traders to defy regulatory order.” This high-profile confrontation with a government agency demonstrated VDM’s willingness to take on institutional power.
Yelwata Massacre Protest (June 2025): Following the Yelwata massacre in Benue State, VDM engaged in peaceful protest alongside community youth, demanding immediate government intervention from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Benue State government. This activism showed his engagement with serious security issues beyond celebrity drama.
NGO Formation (2024): Perhaps VDM’s most significant achievement was establishing an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) to uplift underprivileged individuals across Nigeria. His devoted fans, known as “Ratel VDM,” successfully raised ₦80 million to support the initiative—an extraordinary display of public support and trust. VDM provides regular updates on NGO activities through his social media, demonstrating transparency and accountability.
Legal Battles and Arrests (2024-2025)
VDM’s confrontational approach has led to multiple arrests and ongoing legal battles:
March 2024 Arrest: Arrested on allegations of cyberbullying and cyberstalking, including false accusations against Nigerian actresses and officials. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded in police custody, spending two weeks in detention before release.
June 2024 Arrest: Arrested again at his Abuja residence on defamation charges related to a social media exposé. He was questioned and released the same day.
Femi Falana Legal Threat (September 2024): Falana & Falana Chambers issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding retraction and apology for allegedly defamatory statements VDM made against renowned lawyer Femi Falana in an Instagram post. This legal threat from one of Nigeria’s most respected human rights lawyers highlighted the serious legal jeopardy VDM’s activism creates.
May 2, 2025 Arrest: Arrested on cyberstalking allegations after visiting Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) in Abuja to complain about alleged unauthorized deductions from his mother’s account. The arrest—carried out by masked men whose agency affiliation (EFCC or DSS) was disputed—sparked controversy about whether authorities were attempting to silence him. He was released on administrative bail after five days in custody.
Ongoing Defamation Lawsuits: VDM faces multiple high-profile defamation suits, including a ₦1.1 billion lawsuit from gospel singer Mercy Chinwo (April 2024) and a ₦500 million lawsuit from Esinjemiyotan Atsepoyi (Mr. Jollof’s wife) related to allegations he made about her personal life.
Major Achievements: Impact and Recognition
VDM’s achievements are unconventional but undeniable:
Massive Social Media Following: With millions of followers across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), VDM commands one of Nigeria’s largest activist platforms. His posts regularly go viral, generating millions of views and shaping national conversations.
Davido Endorsement (June 2023): Public support from one of Africa’s biggest music stars validated VDM’s activism and introduced him to mainstream audiences.
Silverbird Nomination (January 2024): Nominated for Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year, formal industry recognition of his impact on Nigerian digital culture.
NGO Fundraising Success: Raising ₦80 million from devoted followers for his NGO demonstrates extraordinary public trust and support. Few Nigerian activists could mobilize such financial backing.
Cultural Impact: VDM’s catchphrases “Don’t Play” and “You’ll learn the hard way” have entered Nigerian popular lexicon. His activism style has inspired countless imitators and shifted how young Nigerians think about holding power accountable.
Institutional Accountability: His confrontations with NAFDAC, banks, and other institutions have forced responses and, in some cases, policy changes. His activism demonstrates that sustained public pressure can move bureaucracies.
Representation of Ordinary Citizens: VDM positions himself as representing ordinary Nigerians against exploitation by celebrities, corporations, and government. This populist appeal resonates deeply in a country where many feel voiceless.
Survival Despite Multiple Arrests: That VDM continues his activism despite repeated arrests demonstrates remarkable resilience and commitment. Many would have been silenced by the legal and personal costs he’s endured.
Personal Life: The Mystery Behind the Activist
Despite his public profile, VDM maintains significant privacy around his personal life—a deliberate strategy that keeps focus on his activism rather than his relationships or family.
Relationship Status:
There are conflicting reports about VDM’s romantic life. Some sources indicate he is in a relationship with a Russian woman named Anna, occasionally sharing snippets of this relationship on social media while keeping details private. Other sources suggest he is single and has never publicly discussed romantic relationships.
This discrepancy likely reflects VDM’s deliberate decision to keep his private life separate from his public activism. Unlike many influencers who monetize every aspect of their personal lives, VDM appears to understand that mystery and privacy can be strategic advantages.
No Children:
There is no public information about VDM having children. He has never mentioned being a father, and no credible sources have reported otherwise.
Family Background:
VDM’s parents—his father a mechanic, his mother a caregiver—remain largely out of the public eye. His May 2, 2025 arrest occurred while he was at GTB complaining about fraudulent deductions from his mother’s account, revealing his ongoing connection to and concern for his parents.
Living Situation:
VDM reportedly resides in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, a strategic location that places him close to government institutions, embassies, and Nigeria’s political elite. His June 2024 arrest occurred “at his Abuja residence,” confirming he maintains a home there.
Personality and Values:
Those who know VDM or follow him closely describe someone who is:
- Fearless: Willing to confront anyone regardless of power or status
- Principled: Genuinely motivated by a sense of justice (even if methods are controversial)
- Intelligent: Strategic in choosing targets and timing of exposés
- Resilient: Continues activism despite arrests, lawsuits, and threats
- Private: Keeps personal life separate from public activism
His Christian upbringing remains evident in his moral framework, which judges behaviors as right or wrong with little gray area. This absolutism makes him an effective activist but also contributes to his polarizing reputation.
Lifestyle:
VDM’s lifestyle appears relatively modest despite his fame. He doesn’t display the wealth common among Nigerian influencers—no constant posts about luxury cars, designer fashion, or expensive jewelry. This modest presentation reinforces his “man of the people” image and makes his activism more credible.
However, the ₦80 million raised for his NGO suggests he now has access to significant resources, though how these are managed and whether he personally benefits remains subject to public scrutiny through his transparency updates.
Net Worth & Lifestyle: Monetizing Activism
VDM’s net worth is estimated between $90,000 and $500,000 (approximately ₦150 million to ₦800 million naira), though exact figures are difficult to determine given the unconventional nature of his income sources.
Income Sources:
Social Media Monetization: With millions of followers, VDM earns from platform monetization (TikTok, YouTube ad revenue), sponsored posts, and brand partnerships. However, his controversial content may limit mainstream brand partnerships that avoid association with polarizing figures.
NGO Activities: While the ₦80 million raised is ostensibly for charitable work, NGO leadership often receives salaries for administrative work. The extent of VDM’s personal compensation from the NGO is not publicly disclosed.
Speaking Engagements and Appearances: As one of Nigeria’s most recognized activists, VDM can command fees for appearances, speaking engagements, and event hosting.
Donations from Supporters: His devoted fanbase (“Ratel VDM”) occasionally sends direct financial support, particularly during legal battles or when he’s in detention.
Potential Consultation Fees: Individuals and businesses seeking his expertise on consumer rights, social media strategy, or crisis management might pay for consultation, though this is speculative.
Lifestyle:
VDM’s public lifestyle appears modest:
- No ostentatious displays of wealth
- Focus on activism content rather than luxury showcases
- Simple clothing and accessories in most videos
- Emphasis on work and mission over material consumption
This modest presentation serves strategic purposes:
- Maintains “man of the people” credibility
- Avoids hypocrisy (he criticizes celebrity materialism)
- Reduces vulnerability to accusations of profiting from activism
- Keeps focus on his message rather than his lifestyle
However, funding his legal defense against multiple lawsuits, managing an NGO, and maintaining his activism while facing repeated arrests requires substantial financial resources, suggesting his actual wealth may be greater than his public presentation indicates.
Recent News & Trends: The Airplane Brawl and Escalating Controversies
The November 17, 2025 Airplane Altercation:
This morning (November 17, 2025), VDM was involved in a shocking physical altercation with comedian Mr. Jollof aboard United Nigeria Airlines Flight UN0523 from Asaba International Airport to Lagos. The incident, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, shows the two men exchanging blows inside the aircraft while alarmed passengers and crew attempt to separate them.
According to VDM’s account, he confronted Mr. Jollof on the plane about their ongoing online feud. He claims he told Mr. Jollof: “Today, you will slap me,” referring to threats made during their social media exchanges. VDM alleges that Mr. Jollof threw the first punch, forcing him to defend himself. The situation escalated with VDM claiming Mr. Jollof bit him during the fight—an allegation VDM found particularly embarrassing for a grown man.
In a video posted after the incident, VDM stated: “MR JOLLOF YOU B!T me, your fellow man haba, JOLLOF WOULD HAVE KPAI [killed] ME IF I DIDN’T DEFEND MYSELF, GOD SAVED ME.” He showed bite marks on his chest as evidence and joked that his tattoo was nearly ruined by “teeth that had not been brushed.”
Airline Response:
United Nigeria Airlines confirmed the incident in an official statement: “United Nigeria Airlines confirms that an altercation occurred between two passengers, identified as Martins Vincent Otse ‘VeryDarkman’ and Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi ‘Mr. Jollof,’ during the boarding of Flight UN0523 at Asaba International Airport on the morning of November 17, 2025.”
The statement continued: “In full compliance with global aviation safety protocols, our crew responded immediately and professionally to de-escalate the situation. Both passengers were deboarded without delay to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of all other passengers and crew members. They were subsequently handed over to airport security for further investigation.”
NCAA Response:
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection for the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), condemned the incident as “unruly behaviour” that endangered everyone on board. He confirmed the NCAA is pursuing sanctions against both men, stating that the airline is required to formally report the incident and that his department would forward it to legal for advice and appropriate action.
Achimugu expressed particular dismay that both individuals are “partners in educating their millions of followers,” making their conduct especially disappointing. He emphasized that aviation safety regulations treat in-flight disturbances seriously and that appropriate sanctions would be pursued.
The Backstory:
The airplane fight was the culmination of months of escalating online tension. The feud began in September 2024 when VDM made serious allegations about Mr. Jollof’s wife, Esinjemiyotan, claiming she committed adultery with a “Yahoo boy” (internet fraudster) and that she slept with politicians to secure her husband’s government appointment as SSA on New Media to Delta State Governor.
These allegations led to Esinjemiyotan filing a ₦500 million defamation lawsuit against VDM in October 2024. Mr. Jollof also gave VDM a 30-day ultimatum to appear in court. The two engaged in heated online exchanges with increasingly personal attacks and threats.
Public Reaction:
The incident dominated Nigerian social media throughout November 17, 2025. Reactions ranged from shock and disappointment to humor:
- Many expressed disbelief that two grown men, both public figures, would fight on an airplane—a serious offense with potentially severe legal consequences.
- Some criticized both for immaturity and endangering other passengers.
- Others made jokes and memes, particularly about VDM’s claim that Mr. Jollof bit him, comparing the comedian to Mike Tyson.
- VDM’s devoted followers praised him for “dealing with” Mr. Jollof, while Mr. Jollof’s supporters blamed VDM for instigating the confrontation.
Other 2025 Controversies:
Beyond the airplane incident, VDM has remained embroiled in multiple controversies throughout 2025:
Ongoing Legal Battles: The defamation lawsuits from Mercy Chinwo (₦1.1 billion) and Esinjemiyotan (₦500 million) remain pending, with potential financial and legal consequences.
NAFDAC Dispute: The May 2025 confrontation with NAFDAC over alleged trader extortion continues generating debate about regulatory overreach versus necessary oversight.
Multiple Arrests: His May 2, 2025 arrest at GTB sparked controversy about whether security agencies were attempting to silence his activism.
NGO Transparency Questions: While VDM provides regular updates on his NGO activities, some critics question financial transparency and how the ₦80 million raised is being utilized.
Continued Celebrity Feuds: VDM continues publicly calling out celebrities, maintaining his confrontational activism style despite legal risks.
Legacy & Impact: Reshaping Nigerian Digital Activism
At just 31 years old, VeryDarkMan has already left an indelible mark on Nigerian society and digital culture, though his ultimate legacy remains contested and evolving.
Democratizing Accountability:
VDM’s greatest contribution may be demonstrating that ordinary citizens with smartphones and social media access can hold powerful figures accountable without institutional backing or elite connections. Before VDM, accountability journalism was largely the domain of established media houses and well-funded NGOs. VDM showed that one determined individual with a large following could generate as much or more pressure on wrongdoers as traditional institutions.
Inspiring Copycat Activism:
VDM’s success has inspired countless imitators—young Nigerians using social media to call out injustice, expose fraud, and demand accountability. While few have matched his impact, the broader effect is a more active, engaged citizenry willing to use digital tools for advocacy.
Challenging Celebrity Culture:
VDM has fundamentally altered Nigerian celebrity culture. Celebrities now know their actions will face scrutiny not just from entertainment media but from activists like VDM who will publicly expose hypocrisy, fake products, or questionable behavior. This accountability pressure has likely made some celebrities more careful about what they endorse and how they conduct themselves.
Redefining Activism:
Traditional Nigerian activism relied on formal organizations, structured protests, and institutional engagement. VDM represents a new model—lone-wolf digital activism that prioritizes immediate viral impact over long-term institutional change. This approach is more agile and attention-grabbing but potentially less sustainable and more vulnerable to legal attack.
The Dark Side: Vigilante Justice Concerns:
Critics argue VDM’s confrontational style amounts to vigilante justice—trial by social media where accusations are presumed true and targets are publicly shamed before any verification or due process. His willingness to make serious allegations (like those against Mr. Jollof’s wife) without conclusive evidence has resulted in multiple defamation suits and raises questions about the line between activism and cyberbullying.
Legal Precedent:
VDM’s multiple arrests and ongoing lawsuits are creating legal precedents about the limits of free speech in Nigeria’s digital age. How courts ultimately rule on his cases will affect what future activists can say and do online. If he prevails, it strengthens protections for activist speech. If he loses major suits, it could chill online activism.
Cultural Representation:
VDM’s moniker “VeryDarkMan,” which celebrates his dark complexion, contributes to broader conversations about colorism and beauty standards in Nigeria. By making his skin tone part of his brand identity and power, he challenges societal preferences for lighter skin.
The NGO Model:
Successfully raising ₦80 million from followers for his NGO demonstrates a new fundraising model where digital influence translates directly to financial support for charitable work. If he successfully uses these funds to help underprivileged Nigerians and maintains transparency, it could inspire similar initiatives.
Polarization:
VDM’s confrontational style contributes to Nigeria’s increasingly polarized public discourse. You’re either with him or against him; there’s little middle ground. This polarization generates attention and engagement but may hinder the nuanced conversations needed for complex issues.
Enduring Questions:
VDM’s ultimate legacy will depend on answers to several unresolved questions:
- Will his activism lead to sustainable institutional changes or just viral moments?
- Will his legal battles vindicate or discredit his methods?
- Will his NGO successfully help people or become mired in controversy?
- Will he evolve his approach or continue courting ever-greater controversy until it destroys him?
- Is he genuinely motivated by justice or by fame and financial gain?
Conclusion: The Unfinished Story of Nigeria’s Most Controversial Activist
At 31, Martins Vincent Otse—VeryDarkMan—stands at a crossroads. The November 17, 2025 airplane altercation with Mr. Jollof represents either a cautionary tale about the dangers of letting online feuds escalate into physical violence, or simply another chapter in a career defined by controversy and confrontation.
What cannot be denied is VDM’s extraordinary impact on Nigerian society. In just a few years, he has transformed from unknown fitness model to one of Nigeria’s most recognized and influential voices. He has forced conversations about consumer rights, celebrity accountability, institutional corruption, and the power of digital activism that Nigeria needed to have.
His methods are controversial, his legal troubles are mounting, and his ultimate fate remains uncertain. The multiple defamation lawsuits could financially destroy him. The airplane altercation could result in flight bans, criminal charges, or worse. His confrontational style makes new enemies daily, and his refusal to compromise suggests he will continue courting controversy until it overwhelms him.
Yet VDM persists. Through arrests, lawsuits, threats, and now physical altercations, he continues his activism. His devoted followers—the “Ratel VDM” army—remain loyal, raising millions for his NGO and defending him against critics. His influence shows no signs of waning; if anything, each controversy seems to expand his reach and solidify his status as Nigeria’s most fearless (or reckless) digital activist.
History will judge whether VeryDarkMan was a heroic truth-teller who held power accountable at great personal cost, or a reckless troublemaker whose methods undermined legitimate activism. Perhaps he is both—a flawed but genuine advocate whose confrontational tactics achieve results traditional activism cannot, but at costs to civility, due process, and his own wellbeing that may prove unsustainable.
What’s certain is that Martins Vincent Otse has made himself impossible to ignore. In a country where so many feel voiceless against injustice, corruption, and exploitation, VDM offers something powerful: the belief that one person with a smartphone and the courage to speak up can make a difference. Whether that belief ultimately empowers Nigerians to demand better or simply fuels more online drama and physical altercations aboard airplanes remains to be seen.
The story of VeryDarkMan is far from over. As he deals with the legal consequences of today’s airplane fight, navigates multiple defamation suits, manages his NGO, and continues his relentless activism, one thing is guaranteed: Nigeria will be watching, commenting, supporting, criticizing, and absolutely unable to look away.
“Don’t Play”—because with VeryDarkMan, you truly will “learn the hard way.”
Frequently Asked Questions About VeryDarkMan (VDM)
VeryDarkMan (VDM) is the online name of Martins Vincent Otse, a 31-year-old Nigerian social media activist, critic, and philanthropist born on April 8, 1994, in Kaduna. He is known as Nigeria’s “online police officer” for his fearless criticism of celebrities, corporations, and government institutions. He has millions of followers across social media platforms.
VDM and comedian Mr. Jollof got into a physical fight aboard United Nigeria Airlines Flight UN0523 from Asaba to Lagos on the morning of November 17, 2025. The altercation, captured on video, resulted in both being deboarded and handed to airport security. VDM claims Mr. Jollof threw the first punch and bit him during the fight.
The feud began in September 2024 when VDM made serious allegations about Mr. Jollof’s wife, Esinjemiyotan, claiming she committed adultery with a “Yahoo boy” and slept with politicians to secure her husband’s government appointment. This led to Esinjemiyotan filing a ₦500 million defamation lawsuit against VDM in October 2024.
VDM has been arrested multiple times: in March 2024 on cyberbullying and cyberstalking charges (detained for two weeks), in June 2024 on defamation charges (questioned and released same day), and on May 2, 2025, after visiting GTB to report fraudulent account deductions (held for five days before release on administrative bail).
VDM’s estimated net worth ranges from $90,000 to $500,000 (approximately ₦150 million to ₦800 million naira). His income comes from social media monetization, brand partnerships, NGO activities, speaking engagements, and supporter donations. However, he maintains a modest public lifestyle.
Related Biographies:
- Mr. Jollof Biography: Nigeria’s Fearless Social Commentator
- Cardi B Biography: From Stripper to Superstar
- David Kekana Biography: South Africa’s Beloved Soccer Analyst
- Priyanka Chopra Jonas Biography: Global Icon
- Dharmendra Biography: Bollywood’s Eternal He-Man
