Popular activist and social media personality, Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has taken to the streets of Awka, Anambra State, to stage a powerful protest against the rising wave of insecurity in the region. The protest comes in the wake of the tragic kidnap and murder of young entrepreneur, Mr. Martins Onyekere, the CEO of Fish Magnet, a thriving business known for its distribution of fresh and dried fish.
The march, which took place on Tuesday, saw thousands of youths most dressed in symbolic black gathering in solidarity with the activist. The crowd assembled first at the popular Aroma Junction before marching through the streets of Awka, eventually arriving at Ring Road Junction, where the late businessman had operated his thriving business before his untimely demise.
VeryDarkMan had earlier announced his arrival in Anambra over the weekend, vowing to use his platform and influence to spotlight what he described as a growing security crisis in the state. His call to action resonated deeply with the youth, many of whom turned out in large numbers to demand justice for the slain CEO.
However, the peaceful protest did not come without tension.
Prior to the march, the Anambra State Police Command issued a public warning to the activist, cautioning him against any actions that could incite unrest. In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, advised the influencer to be mindful of his influence and to avoid statements that could “incite tension or breach public peace within the State.”
“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu has issued a stern warning to social media influencer Mr Martins Vincent Otse popularly known as VeryDarkMan,” the statement read.
“He cautioned him against making statements or taking actions capable of inciting tension or breaching public peace within the State.”
The Command further emphasized the importance of allowing the grieving family to mourn in peace, rather than stirring emotions that could unsettle the state.
“CP Orutugu urged residents and visitors alike to go about their lawful duties without fear, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order. He further advised social media users and public figures to exercise restraint and avoid spreading misinformation or making inciting remarks.”
Despite the warning, the protest has maintained a peaceful tone, garnering even more attention as notable figures joined in. Among them was SP Tochukwu Ikenga himself, along with Mr. Ejimofor Opara, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Media, and several other government representatives.
The continued march stands as a bold statement against violence, and a call for justice not just for Mr. Martins Onyekere but for all who have fallen victim to insecurity in the region. As the protest grows, so too does the demand for answers, accountability, and a safer Anambra.
