Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has spoken out against the arrest of social media personality Martin Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
In a statement on Sunday, Peter Obi said the way VDM was taken into custody felt more like an abduction than a legal arrest, a move that has left many Nigerians worried.
The politician described the arrest as “deeply troubling,” warning that such actions could be copied by criminals and used to create confusion and fear among citizens.
“This trend is not new. We must recall that even our esteemed judges, the last line of defence for justice, have suffered similar indignities in recent years. When those who interpret the law are treated with such disregard, it is difficult to expect that ordinary citizens will feel protected under the law,” he said.
Obi also pointed out that this isn’t the first time officials have been treated this way, reminding Nigerians that even respected judges have faced similar humiliating treatment.
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He said this kind of behavior undermines trust in the legal system and puts everyday people at greater risk.
Speaking on the impact of the incident, Peter Obi noted the backlash faced by GTBank, which has been linked to VeryDarkMan’s arrest.
He warned that the situation has damaged the bank’s reputation and could shake investor confidence even further during a time when Nigeria’s economy is already fragile.
Obi said, “The backlash directed at GTBank, allegedly linked to the circumstances surrounding Mr. Otse’s arrest, has had serious reputational consequences.
“At a time when investor confidence is already fragile, we must do all we can to avoid actions that tarnish institutions or undermine the trust of both citizens and the international community.
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“One cannot help but ask: was it impossible to invite Mr. Otse in a civil, transparent, and legal manner? Would that not have spared Nigerians, GTBank, and our national image the unnecessary shame and losses we now witness?”
He also raised concerns about the reported abduction of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) President, saying it brings up serious questions about the freedom and independence of student leaders.
According to him, young Nigerians must never be silenced or forced into political games that don’t represent their views.
He warned that using threats, intimidation, or financial incentives to suppress the voices of young people is a dangerous trend that should not be allowed to continue.
Obi called for a return to justice, fairness, and responsible governance.
“We must return to a Nigeria where justice is done and is seen to be done without theatrics or abuse. A country where youth can speak freely, judges can serve with dignity, and institutions act responsibly. That is the Nigeria we must rebuild,” he said.
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