NIGERIA: ‘When Arrests Look Like Abductions, National Security Is at Risk’ — Peter Obi Warns Over VDM Saga

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Nigerian former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the approach of the recent arrest of social commentator Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

Obi, disclosing this in a post on Sunday, described the arrest as a dangerous trend that blurs the line between lawful detention and criminal abduction.

“The display of force, lacking in transparency and civility, closely resembled an abduction,” Obi said.

He added that, “If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.”

Obi’s remarks come amid growing public outrage over the manner in which VDM was apprehended by security operatives.

While authorities claim the arrest was lawful, videos and eyewitness accounts have painted a picture of excessive force and secrecy, hallmarks, Obi warns, that could embolden criminal elements and further erode trust in the justice system.

“This trend is not new,” Obi added, referencing past cases where even judges have suffered similar indignities.

“When those who interpret the law are treated with such disregard, it is difficult to expect that ordinary citizens will feel protected under the law,” he said.

The former governor also criticized the ripple effects of the arrest on the business climate, highlighting the backlash faced by GTBank, allegedly linked to the case, which has suffered reputational damage.

He said “At a time when investor confidence is already fragile, we must avoid actions that tarnish institutions or undermine the trust of both citizens and the international community.”

Obi also voiced alarm over reports of political manipulation in student leadership, particularly the controversial “adoption” of the NANS President.

“The oppression of young voices, whether through force, patronage, or intimidation, is a dangerous path that we must not normalize,” he warned.

Calling for a return to due process, civility, and transparency, Obi reiterated his vision of a “New Nigeria” where “justice is done and is seen to be done.”