Media personality Martins Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), has publicly challenged the federal government’s claims about the state of the economy. The outspoken critic has not only called out alleged misinformation but has also taken matters into his own hands by offering financial support for skills acquisition among his followers.
On a sweltering afternoon in Lagos, Verydarkman took to social media to address what he perceives as blatant deception by the federal government. In a video that has since gone viral, VDM vehemently disputed the government’s assertion that 50kg bags of rice are being sold for N40,000.
It’s a complete lie,” VDM declared, his voice resonating with frustration. Go to any market in Nigeria today, and you’ll find that a bag of rice costs more than N70,000. I challenge the government to show us where we can buy rice at the price they’re claiming.
This discrepancy between official statements and market realities has struck a chord with many Nigerians who are grappling with the rising cost of living. Adebayo Ogunlesi, a market trader in Oshodi, Lagos, corroborated VDM’s claims. “We haven’t seen rice at N40,000 for months now. The government is out of touch with what’s happening on the ground,” Ogunlesi stated.
VDM’s criticism didn’t stop at food prices. He also took aim at the government’s handling of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) allowance. According to the media personality, the government has announced an increase in the NYSC allowance to N77,000, but corps members are still receiving the old rate of N33,000.
“How can they announce one thing and do another?” VDM questioned. “This kind of deceit is what’s eroding trust in our government.”
To verify this claim, we spoke with Chioma Nwosu, a current NYSC member serving in Abuja. We’ve heard about the increase, but nothing has changed in our accounts. It’s disheartening,” Nwosu shared.
Perhaps the most striking part of VDM’s message was his ominous warning about potential civil unrest. With a somber tone, he cautioned that a day might come when citizens will protest against bad leadership, catching the government off guard.
“When that day comes, no one will announce it in advance,” VDM stated firmly. The government will have to deal with the consequences of their actions and inactions.
This warning comes at a time when social tensions are already high due to economic hardships. Dr. Olumide Abimbola, a sociologist at the University of Lagos, commented on the situation: “VDM’s words reflect a growing frustration among Nigerians. The government would do well to address these concerns before they escalate.”
In a surprising twist, Verydarkman has moved beyond criticism to take concrete action. In a separate video posted on October 12, 2024, VDM announced that he has set aside N250,000 to support four individuals in acquiring new skills.
“I want to know what skills you want to learn,” VDM addressed his followers. Comment on my Instagram post, and I’ll be selecting four people to receive N62,500 each for their chosen skill acquisition program.
This initiative has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm. Within hours of the announcement, VDM’s Instagram post had garnered over 10,000 comments from hopeful applicants.
One such applicant, Emeka Okafor, a 25-year-old unemployed graduate from Enugu, shared his aspirations: “I’ve always wanted to learn web development, but the training costs were out of reach. This opportunity could be life-changing for me.”
The response to VDM’s dual approach of criticism and community support has been largely positive. Many Nigerians see his actions as a refreshing change from mere complaints to proactive solutions.
@papimaka commented on social media: “God Bless VDM. Nah Greed go make me or anyone else who get something doing to apply.” This sentiment was echoed by many who appreciated VDM’s initiative while recognizing the importance of giving opportunities to those most in need.
Others, like @dkokopee, praised VDM for “showing people where the money dey,” highlighting the impact that individual actions can have in addressing societal issues.
As Verydarkman’s videos continue to circulate and his skills acquisition initiative unfolds, the implications of his actions are yet to be fully realized. While N250,000 may seem like a drop in the ocean of Nigeria’s economic challenges, it represents a significant step towards community-driven solutions.
Dr. Funmi Adewale, an economist at Covenant University, offered her perspective: “What VDM is doing is commendable, but it also highlights the gap between government policies and grassroots realities. It’s a wake-up call for more effective governance and policy implementation.
As the selection process for the skills acquisition program continues, many are watching closely to see how this initiative might inspire similar actions from other public figures or even prompt a response from the government.
In conclusion, Verydarkman’s recent actions have not only shed light on pressing economic issues but have also sparked a conversation about individual responsibility and community support in the face of governmental shortcomings. As Nigeria navigates these challenging times, the impact of voices like VDM’s and the ripple effects of their actions may play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s path forward.
