Peter Obi condemns arrest of VeryDarkMan, says it lacked civility

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, says the arrest of Martin Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was done in a manner that resembled an abduction.

In a statement posted on X on Sunday, Obi said the method used in arresting Otse sent a disturbing message to Nigerians and could encourage criminal elements to adopt similar tactics.

He said while security agencies may be acting within their legal rights, the show of force lacked transparency and civility.

His words: “The display of force, lacking in transparency and civility, closely resembled an abduction, a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements.

“If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.”

The former Anambra state governor said the increasing disregard for the rule of law and human rights was contributing to the rising tension and hardship in the country.

He recalled previous incidents where judges were treated in a similar fashion, warning that if judicial officers are not protected, citizens would find it hard to believe they have any legal shield.

“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 lamented.

He also addressed the backlash faced by GTBank over its alleged involvement in Otse’s arrest, warning that such incidents could have adverse effects on Nigeria’s already fragile economy.

“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.

“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 queried.

Obi further raised concern over the alleged co-opting of the president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), describing it as a threat to youth independence in democracy.

Hd said: “If true, it raises critical questions about the independence of student leadership and the subtle erosion of young voices in our democracy.

“Nigeria’s youth should not feel coerced, silenced, or absorbed into political agendas that do not reflect their will. The oppression of young voices, whether through force, patronage, or intimidation, is a dangerous path that we must not normalize.”

Obi said the country must return to a system where justice is served fairly, institutions are respected, and youth voices are heard.