The Anambra State Police Command has warned social media influencer, Mr. Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, against making statements or taking actions that could incite tension or disturb the public peace in the state.
The warning, issued by the Commissioner of Police in the State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, was contained in a statement released on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
According to the statement, the caution was prompted by concerns over the conduct of the influencer in relation to the recent death of Mr. Ifesinachi Onyekere, the Managing Director of Fish Magnet outlet.
“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, cautioning him against making statements or taking actions capable of inciting tension or breaching public peace within the state,” Ikenga stated.
The police further referenced the stance of the bereaved family, stating that the Onyekere family had disassociated themselves from any planned or ongoing memorial activities in honour of the late businessman.
“The CP noted the decision of the family of the late Mr. Ifesinachi Onyekere, Managing Director of Fish Magnet outlet, to publicly dissociate themselves from any proposed or ongoing candlelight procession or memorial gathering being organized in his name,” the police spokesperson noted.
“They therefore pleaded that they should allow the family to grieve privately while trusting the authorities to do their work.”
Ikenga said the CP reiterated that Anambra remains one of the most peaceful states in the region due to collaborative efforts by law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders.
He emphasized that the peace would not be compromised by the actions of any individual, regardless of their social status or online influence.
“He stressed that no individual, regardless of social status, would be allowed to disrupt the existing peace and security architecture of the State,” the statement added.
The Commissioner also advised residents to remain calm and go about their lawful activities without fear, assuring them of the police’s continued dedication 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,” Ikenga said.
“The Command further warns that anyone found undermining public peace, either online or offline, will face the full weight of the law.”
Onyekere’s death in July sparked widespread outrage online after graphic details surrounding the incident began circulating.
While investigations into the circumstances of his death are ongoing, the case has attracted commentary from public figures and influencers, including VeryDarkMan, who has a large following for his blunt and controversial takes on social issues.
This is not the first time Nigerian authorities have clashed with social media personalities over online commentary.
In recent years, police and state security agencies have repeatedly warned against what they call “inciting remarks” and “misinformation” capable of threatening public order, especially in regions like the South-East, which have witnessed periodic security challenges.
