VeryDarkMan Apologises to Security Personnel Over NBA Remarks

MAX FM News Desk
News & Current Affairs Writer, MAX 102.3 FM
Published: September 4, 2026

Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has apologised to soldiers, police officers, customs and immigration personnel over controversial comments he made at the Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th Annual General Conference.

Otse issued the apology in a video shared on Friday after reflecting on his speech at the conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He said he realised that his remarks unfairly grouped security personnel who continue to risk their lives while protecting Nigerians.

The activist had drawn criticism after describing military, police, immigration and customs personnel as “unknown gunmen” while discussing insecurity at the conference.

VeryDarkMan Clarifies His Position

However, Otse has now acknowledged that his choice of words was unfair to many security personnel.

He explained that his comments focused on alleged wrongdoing within the security system rather than every officer serving in the country. Nevertheless, he admitted that the way he presented his argument created a broader impression.

In particular, Otse recognised the sacrifices made by soldiers and other security personnel who serve in dangerous locations. He also acknowledged that some officers have lost their lives while carrying out their duties.

As a result, he apologised to security personnel and their families who may have felt offended by his comments.

Otse also directed an apology to the Chief of Defence Staff and asked that it extend to soldiers serving in conflict-affected areas. Furthermore, he apologised to personnel of the police, customs and immigration services.

At the same time, the activist maintained his concerns about alleged misconduct within the security system. He stressed that his criticism targeted individuals he described as “bad eggs,” not the entire security workforce.

Controversial NBA Appearance

Otse made the comments during his appearance at the NBA conference in Port Harcourt, where he participated in discussions on insecurity.

VeryDarkMan says sorry to Nigeria’s security personnel.

His remarks sparked debate about the role of social media personalities in conversations on sensitive national issues. They also raised questions about how public figures should address allegations involving security institutions.

Nevertheless, Otse’s latest statement draws a clear distinction between his concerns about alleged misconduct and the wider body of security personnel serving the country.

For now, the activist has apologised for the language he used while maintaining his broader concerns about Nigeria’s security challenges.