Legal practitioner Dr. Blessing Agbomhere has criticised social media activist Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, over his recent protest demanding stronger government action against insecurity in Nigeria.VeryDarkMan led a street demonstration in Abuja on Thursday ahead of the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations, calling for urgent efforts to rescue Nigerians held captive by bandits and address the country’s worsening security concerns.The protest, however, has drawn criticism from Agbomhere, who argued that demonstrations and public criticism of the government would not solve the country’s security challenges.
Agbomhere condemns VeryDarkMan’s protest
In a statement issued after the protest, Agbomhere accused the activist of promoting narratives that could weaken public confidence in government institutions and heighten public tensions.He argued that Nigerians should support security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist efforts to combat terrorism, kidnapping and other criminal activities.According to the legal practitioner, insecurity in Nigeria has been worsened by several factors, including poverty, unemployment, weak law enforcement, tribal tensions, drug abuse, community conflicts and the pursuit of quick wealth.He described calls for protests against insecurity and the administration of President Bola Tinubu as counterproductive, arguing that such actions could contribute to disorder rather than provide solutions.
Legal practitioner calls for citizen cooperation
Agbomhere acknowledged that Nigerians have the constitutional right to express their opinions and criticise government policies. However, he maintained that there should be a distinction between constructive criticism and actions that could potentially encourage public disorder.He said the fight against insecurity should involve cooperation among citizens, local communities, government institutions and security agencies.The legal practitioner further argued that communities have an important role to play in preventing crime through vigilance, intelligence sharing and cooperation with law enforcement authorities.
Political exploitation of insecurity alleged
Agbomhere also alleged that some political actors could be attempting to use the country’s security challenges to advance partisan interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.He warned that inflammatory statements and efforts to mobilise public anger against government institutions could increase tensions and further divide the country.According to him, tackling insecurity requires sustained cooperation rather than relying solely on street protests or public demonstrations.
Call for stronger action against criminals
While criticising the protest, Agbomhere also condemned kidnappings and killings across the country. He urged government officials, security agencies and law enforcement authorities to intensify efforts to prevent crimes, arrest suspects and ensure that offenders face justice.He called on Nigerians to remain patient and continue working with lawful institutions, stressing that communities should become active partners in crime prevention.Agbomhere maintained that Nigeria could overcome its security challenges if citizens and government institutions worked together in the national interest.
Conclusion
The criticism of VeryDarkMan’s protest has reignited debate over the most effective way to demand action against insecurity in Nigeria. While public demonstrations remain a means of expressing concern, Agbomhere believes lasting progress will require stronger collaboration between citizens, communities and security agencies.
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