Amid the growing discontent in Nigeria over worsening economic conditions and rising insecurity, popular social media activist Vincent Otse Martins, widely known as Verydarkman, has stirred a nationwide conversation with a blistering critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a passionate video shared on Instagram, the outspoken influencer did not hold back as he reacted to the recent death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, claiming that many Nigerians would have preferred it if Tinubu had died instead.
The video, now widely circulated across social media platforms, showcases Verydarkman's intense frustration with the current administration. His words reflect the sentiments of a growing number of citizens who feel increasingly disillusioned with the promises made by President Tinubu when he assumed office.
Verydarkman declared that the level of public disdain for the current president has reached such extremes that even the association with Tinubu now brings backlash. According to him, celebrities or influencers who post photos with the president are immediately vilified, their reputations tainted simply for appearing to align with a leader many view as responsible for widespread suffering.
“You removed the subsidy claiming you want to use the money to do something in Nigeria but you still dey borrow money till today,” he said in the video. “We never thought in this world that as Nigerians wey dey produce oil, we would buy fuel for the price it is now.”
Fuel prices, now at an all-time high, have become a symbol of the economic strain affecting millions. The removal of the fuel subsidy in 2023, which was touted as a bold reform to save national resources and redirect funds into infrastructure and public services, has yielded little relief for the average Nigerian. Instead, it has intensified inflation, raised transportation and food costs, and diminished the purchasing power of many citizens.
Verydarkman also raised doubts over the implementation of the new national minimum wage. He noted that although the federal government has announced an increase, many workers across various sectors have yet to receive the promised adjustment in their salaries. Reports from different parts of the country suggest that numerous state and private institutions have not complied with the new wage standards, further fueling the perception of administrative failure.
The activist’s commentary was not limited to economics alone. He pointed fingers at the persistent security challenges plaguing the country. Kidnappings, banditry, and terrorism continue to threaten lives in many regions. Despite various military operations and security reforms, large sections of the population still live under the shadow of fear and instability.
According to Verydarkman, support for Tinubu's government is dwindling, and those who continue to defend his leadership are either financially benefiting from it, driven by tribal allegiance, or influenced by religious bias. “Anybody wey dey support you na because of money or people wey tribalism don finish or religion,” he said without mincing words.
The video sparked a flurry of reactions online, with thousands of comments and shares. While some criticized the tone and timing of his remarks, many others applauded him for speaking what they believe is the raw, unfiltered truth. Hashtags calling for accountability and reform began trending on Nigerian Twitter (now X), further emphasizing the depth of public frustration.
Observers note that this is not the first time Verydarkman has made bold political statements. Known for his fearless approach, he has built a substantial following by tackling controversial topics and holding powerful figures accountable in his content. However, this latest outburst marks one of his most direct attacks on the Nigerian presidency, sparking debates about free speech, patriotism, and the role of influencers in shaping public discourse.
Though the presidency has not issued an official response to Verydarkman’s video as of the time of writing, political analysts suggest the administration can no longer afford to ignore the growing wave of dissatisfaction. From skyrocketing fuel costs to unfulfilled economic promises and deepening insecurity, the reality for many Nigerians contrasts sharply with the vision of a prosperous, secure nation once promised by the Tinubu government.
Whether the president will address these concerns directly or allow them to simmer remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that voices like Verydarkman's are becoming louder and more influential, reflecting a populace no longer willing to stay silent in the face of hardship.
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