Nigeria: Police question VeryDarkMan, AIG Jimoh over viral allegations
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed it has invited social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, and has also questioned Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Moshood Jimoh, over allegations made by the activist.
The development was announced on Tuesday in a statement by the Force spokesperson, CSP Ani Iniedu.
According to the statement, the Assistant Inspector-General in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID, Abuja, formally invited AIG Jimoh for questioning in connection with the allegations raised by VeryDarkMan.
VeryDarkMan has in recent days posted a series of videos and statements on social media accusing unnamed senior police officers of misconduct and abuse of office. While the activist did not initially name anyone, the posts generated widespread reactions online and calls for the police to respond.
The Force said it decided to act in order to address the claims transparently and in line with due process.
“Following the allegations made by Martins Vincent Otse, the Force has deemed it necessary to invite him to provide details and evidence to substantiate his claims,” CSP Iniedu said.
She added that as part of internal procedure, AIG Moshood Jimoh was also invited by the FCID to respond to aspects of the allegations that mentioned his office.
The Nigeria Police Force stressed that it does not condone misconduct by any officer, regardless of rank.
“The Force remains committed to accountability, professionalism and upholding public trust,” the statement read. “All allegations, no matter the source, will be investigated thoroughly.”
CSP Iniedu said the invitation of VeryDarkMan is to enable him to formally present the facts behind his claims so that the police can investigate properly. She urged members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information while investigations are ongoing.
The Force also appealed to citizens with credible information to come forward through official channels rather than only on social media.
Martins Vincent Otse rose to prominence as a social media commentator known for calling out fraud, injustice, and government lapses. He has millions of followers across TikTok, Instagram and X, and his videos often spark national debate.
He has previously clashed with authorities and celebrities over various issues, but this is the first time the police have publicly confirmed inviting him over allegations involving senior officers.
The Force said investigations have commenced and that both parties will be given a fair hearing.
AIG Jimoh, who heads a key department within the police, was questioned at the FCID in Abuja on Tuesday. The police did not disclose details of what was discussed, citing the ongoing nature of the inquiry.
VeryDarkMan is expected to honor the invitation in the coming days to provide statements and any evidence he has.
The police said the outcome of the investigation will be made public once concluded.
The case highlights the growing influence of social media activists in holding public institutions accountable in Nigeria. It also puts a spotlight on how the police handle internal allegations made in the public space.
Civil society groups have urged the Force to ensure the process is transparent and free from interference, noting that public confidence will depend on how fairly the matter is handled.
For now, the police say the goal is simple: get the facts, investigate thoroughly, and take appropriate action based on findings.
