Deji Adeyanju, the legal representative for controversial Nigerian activist Martin Vincent, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has accused the Nigerian Police Force of unlawfully detaining his client.
This detention reportedly follows Vincent’s compliance with a police invitation to address concerns surrounding his use of a police uniform in a widely circulated social media video.
In a recent statement, Adeyanju criticized the Nigerian Police, stating, “Our client, VDM, has been detained after honouring the police invitation just like yesterday.
VDM has consistently said the Nigerian Police are our friends even when we all know they are not.” His comments shows a tension between citizens and law enforcement, highlighting an incident that has attracted significant public attention.
Prior to his detention, VDM had posted a video on his social media accounts, disclosing that he had been invited by the police. In this video, he addressed his followers, stating, “I was invited by the police command two days ago on the allegation that I used police uniforms to make a video; I am on my way now to clear my name.”
His statement suggested a cooperative approach as he attempted to clarify the matter with law enforcement.
After an initial round of questioning, VDM shared a subsequent video on Instagram, explaining his experience at the police station. In the post, he clarified his intentions, expressing that he had not meant to impersonate police officers in any way.
He however apologized to the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General of Police for any unintended misunderstanding arising from his social media post. “I didn’t intend to impersonate the police in any way,” he said, adding, “I tender my unreserved apologies to the Nigeria Police Force and the office of the Inspector General of Police.”
VDM also took the opportunity to advise the public on the sensitive nature of police symbols, encouraging individuals to obtain formal permission from law enforcement before utilizing attire resembling official uniforms.
“You might want to use it for good, but there are others that might want to use it for bad,” he stated, warning of potential risks associated with misuse.
VDM also extended gratitude to his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, for his unwavering legal support throughout the ordeal.
