Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has summoned controversial social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), while also questioning Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Moshood Jimoh over allegations the influencer made concerning the handling of a high-profile murder investigation.
The development follows weeks of intense public debate after VeryDarkMan accused AIG Jimoh of corruption and alleged that the senior police officer manipulated investigations in the Ajiran double-murder case in Lagos. The activist challenged the police chief to publicly respond to his claims and maintained that he was prepared to face legal consequences if his allegations were proven false.
According to the Nigeria Police Force, the decision to invite VeryDarkMan forms part of efforts to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and ensure that due process is followed. Police authorities also confirmed that AIG Jimoh is being questioned as part of internal procedures aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability within the Force.
The police stressed that no officer is above scrutiny and that every allegation made against personnel would be examined objectively.
Allegations against AIG Jimoh
The controversy began after VeryDarkMan released videos on his social media platforms accusing AIG Moshood Jimoh of compromising the investigation into the killing of two Ajiran community figures.
He alleged that the investigation had been manipulated to implicate businessman Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi despite what he claimed were earlier statements from arrested suspects that did not mention Akanbi’s involvement.
The activist further accused the senior officer of abuse of office and challenged him to institute criminal defamation proceedings if the allegations were false.
The allegations quickly generated widespread reactions across social media, with supporters demanding an independent investigation while others urged caution until official findings were released.
Police records challenge claims
However, several reports citing official police documents have disputed VeryDarkMan’s claims.
According to documents reviewed by multiple media organisations, AIG Jimoh’s involvement in the case followed a directive from the Inspector-General of Police after petitions were submitted by representatives of the victims’ family.
The records indicate that investigators obtained witness statements, recovered evidence and acted on court-approved warrants during the investigation.
The documents further state that allegations suggesting the officer fabricated evidence or acted outside lawful procedures are not supported by available investigative records.
Rights groups back police officer
Civil society organisations, including the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) and the South West Youth Alliance (SWYA), have also defended AIG Jimoh.
The groups described the corruption allegations as unsubstantiated and urged the public to allow the judicial process to continue without interference.
They argued that official records contradict claims that evidence disappeared or that suspects were unlawfully implicated.
According to the organisations, attempts to discredit investigators without verifiable evidence could undermine confidence in the justice system.
Police reaffirm accountability
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated that the invitation extended to VeryDarkMan should not be interpreted as a declaration of guilt but as part of standard investigative procedures.
The Force said it remains committed to professionalism, accountability and respect for citizens’ rights while ensuring that allegations against officers are properly investigated.
Officials added that questioning both the complainant and the officer concerned reflects the Force’s determination to establish the truth through evidence rather than public opinion.
Public interest grows
The case has continued to attract significant public attention due to VeryDarkMan’s large online following and his frequent criticism of public institutions.
Legal analysts say the outcome of the investigation could influence public confidence in both law enforcement and the handling of allegations made through social media platforms.
Observers have also urged all parties to avoid prejudicing ongoing investigations and allow relevant authorities to complete their inquiries before drawing conclusions.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force had not announced whether criminal charges would arise from the investigation or when the outcome of the questioning would be made public. The Force maintained that investigations remain ongoing and that further updates would be communicated through official channels.
Sources:
- Nigeria Police Force
- The Guardian Nigeria
- The Nation
- PRNigeria
- Legit.ng
