Clash of Ideologies: VeryDarkMan Rebukes Deji Adeyanju's Call for Caution, Defends Risk-Taking Activism

 

Nigerian social commentator and controversial activist, VeryDarkMan, has openly criticized his legal counsel, Deji Adeyanju, over a public advisory issued by the lawyer warning him against what he termed as "unnecessary risks." The disagreement, which has since sparked wide-ranging reactions on social media, lays bare a growing ideological rift between two notable voices in Nigeria’s civic space.

Adeyanju, a well-known rights advocate and political analyst, had taken to his official X account (formerly Twitter) to express concern over the activist’s safety, noting that public memory is short and people tend to move on quickly in the face of tragedy. In his words:
“I call VDM every time to be careful and stop taking unnecessary risks but he doesn’t listen most of the time. If anything happens to you today, everyone has moved on by tomorrow. We only overrate ourselves, Nigerians don’t rate anybody.”

That message, which might have come from a place of concern, struck a nerve with VeryDarkMan. The social critic, known for his provocative style and fearless commentaries, did not take the post lightly. In a swift and strongly worded reaction, he expressed deep disappointment, accusing Adeyanju of echoing what he views as defeatist rhetoric designed to silence bold voices.

His response reflected not only frustration but also a passionate rejection of what he called "coward talk." He began by emphasizing his emotional reaction, stating plainly:

“First thing first, I’m really disappointed in my lawyer, Deji Adeyanju. I’m so disappointed in you for this post especially because you are a comrade. If it was an ordinary Nigerian that say this thing I would have assumed they don’t know better.”

Taking the argument a step further, VeryDarkMan invoked history and global examples to make his point. He questioned whether the inevitability of people moving on after a loss should serve as a reason to avoid standing up for what one believes in. Referencing figures such as Jesus Christ, past Popes, and former Nigerian leaders, he asserted that no one is irreplaceable, and therefore, living in fear of being forgotten is meaningless.

“Jesus Christ died, the world moved on. Catholic Pope died, the world moved on and a new Pope was installed. Buhari died, the world has moved on. Who do you think is special, you?”

The core of VeryDarkMan’s argument revolved around the belief that accepting the idea of inevitable public amnesia is a form of submission to oppression. He described anyone who adopts that mindset as lacking courage, arguing that such thinking only emboldens corrupt political figures to continue silencing voices through fear and intimidation.

“Ultimately, anybody wey open his mouth talk that thing is a coward. I swear to God, any human for this country wey open his to say Nigeria will move on if you die is a coward. And trust me, that is a word those politicians have put out there to scare people from talking.”

Furthering his rebuttal, the activist pointed to numerous Nigerians who have met tragic ends despite not being on the frontlines or speaking out. He listed states such as Benue, Borno, Taraba, Delta, and Enugu as places where innocent lives have been lost, challenging the idea that silence ensures safety.

“Some people self wey no dey take risks, them they come kill them for their house. You think you are important? We are all nothing. You add so much importance to your life when you are nothing.”

The public dispute has drawn mixed reactions. Some applaud Adeyanju for caring about his client's welfare, while others see VeryDarkMan’s defiance as a needed voice in a society where fear has subdued many. The clash underscores a broader tension within activist circles: the balance between safety and boldness, caution and courage.

Both men have made significant contributions to civic discussions in Nigeria. While Deji Adeyanju often advocates within formal and legal frameworks, VeryDarkMan employs a more confrontational and populist approach that resonates with the youth and those disillusioned with traditional leadership.

As this conversation continues online, it opens up critical questions: Should public figures tone down activism in the name of personal safety? Or is boldness, even at personal risk, the only way to bring about lasting change in a country fraught with inequality, insecurity, and silenced dissent?

Regardless of where one stands, the exchange between VeryDarkMan and Deji Adeyanju reminds Nigerians of the high stakes involved in public activism and the difficult choices that come with speaking truth to power.