Nigerian social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkman (VDM), has brazenly challenged Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) while displaying acts of conspicuous spending at a nightclub in Jos, Plateau State. The controversial social media personality documented himself throwing money in the air alongside his friend Kokopee, deliberately tagging the anti-graft agency in his social media posts.
In a bold display that has set social media ablaze, VeryDarkman was captured on camera at CHILLERS BY NEW YORKER, a popular nightspot in Jos, engaging in the controversial practice of “money spraying” – a traditional Nigerian custom that has recently faced scrutiny from law enforcement agencies. The social media star’s actions appear to be a calculated move to provoke a response from the EFCC, as he explicitly referenced the high-profile Okoya case in his posts.
Making his defiance even more pointed, VDM captioned his post with a direct challenge to the anti-corruption agency: “Okoya is my new surname, so EFCC, no go talk. Where there is no law, there is no crime.” The reference to Okoya appears to be a deliberate comparison to other high-profile cases that have seemingly gone uninvestigated, using this as leverage to question the consistency of the EFCC’s enforcement actions.
The event, which was professionally photographed by Mr. Plain, also featured an unexpected celebrity appearance. Nigerian Afrobeats artist Peruzzi, formerly signed to Davido’s DMW record label, was spotted in the background of several photos, adding another layer of intrigue to the already controversial evening.
VeryDarkman’s provocative display has sparked intense debate across Nigerian social media platforms, with supporters and critics alike weighing in on his bold stance. The influencer, who has built his brand on claims of unwavering integrity and fearlessness in the face of authority, seems to be testing the boundaries of his proclaimed immunity from prosecution.
The timing of this incident is particularly noteworthy, as it comes amid increased scrutiny of public displays of wealth and the EFCC’s selective enforcement practices. VDM’s explicit tagging of the EFCC in his posts suggests a deliberate attempt to highlight what some perceive as inconsistencies in the commission’s approach to investigating financial crimes.
Public reaction to VeryDarkman’s display has been mixed but largely supportive, with many social media users expressing admiration for his audacity. Some followers have praised his boldness, while others have noted the strategic nature of his actions, suggesting that by linking himself to the Okoya case, he’s created a clever form of social protection against potential prosecution.
The incident has also reignited discussions about the practice of money spraying in Nigerian society, its legality, and the selective enforcement of laws surrounding public displays of wealth. While the practice remains deeply embedded in Nigerian cultural celebrations, its legality has been questioned by various regulatory bodies, including the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Social media commentator and digital rights activist, @pelz_a77, noted an interesting observation about VDM’s growing influence: “VDM will need some new haters, cause the old ones are starting to like him, and I don’t like how big the family is becoming.” This comment reflects the shifting public perception of the controversial figure, who has managed to transform criticism into support through his confrontational approach to authority.
The EFCC’s silence on the matter has not gone unnoticed, with many social media users suggesting that the agency’s lack of response further validates VDM’s point about selective enforcement. As one user, @sirr_gerald, commented, “EFCC no go ever respond, this one don pass their power.”
The incident raises important questions about the relationship between social media influence, law enforcement, and public accountability in Nigeria. VeryDarkman’s actions, while provocative, have successfully sparked a broader conversation about the consistency of law enforcement and the power dynamics between social media personalities and regulatory authorities.
As this story continues to develop, it remains to be seen whether the EFCC will respond to VeryDarkman’s explicit challenge or maintain its silence. Whatever the outcome, this incident has already succeeded in drawing attention to the complex intersections of social media influence, law enforcement, and public accountability in contemporary Nigerian society.
