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- Popular social media personality Very Dark Man, an Edo-born influencer known for his controversial takes on social issues, has ignited a heated debate after calling on Igbos to stage a protest over the revelations in a newly published book. His call has been met with widespread backlash, with many accusing him of opportunism, clout-chasing, and a lack of genuine concern for Igbo struggles.
The controversy erupted after Very Dark Man released a video urging Igbos to take to the streets in response to the book’s findings, which he claimed warranted mass action. However, many within the Igbo community dismissed his call as reckless and uninformed, arguing that such a protest could lead to severe consequences given the current state of security in the South-East.
Criticism Over Security Risks
Opponents of Very Dark Man’s call for protest argue that the South-East remains one of the most militarized regions in Nigeria under the current APC-led government. Security forces are frequently deployed in the region, citing concerns over secessionist movements and insecurity. Critics warn that a public demonstration could easily escalate into a violent crackdown, giving security operatives an excuse to brand young Igbo protesters as anti-state actors.
“Does he not understand the risks involved?” one critic asked. “Or is he just doing this for engagement on social media? If he truly cared about Igbos, he would know that the government has militarized our lands and would use any excuse to clamp down on our youth.”
Another critic pointed out that Igbo activism must be strategic, not impulsive. “Marching in the streets is not always the answer. If you’re truly an advocate for the Igbo people, you should be pushing for political and economic empowerment, not setting up our youth to be brutalized.”
Where Was This Energy During the 2023 Elections?
Beyond security concerns, many have questioned Very Dark Man’s sudden interest in Igbo affairs, pointing out that he was largely silent when Igbos were harassed, brutalized, and even killed during the 2023 elections in Lagos.
“Where was this sudden Igbo advocacy when our people were attacked at polling stations?” one person asked. “Why didn’t he make videos then? Why didn’t he call for protests when Igbo voters were disenfranchised? Now, all of a sudden, because it suits his narrative, he wants Igbos to take to the streets?”
Many believe Very Dark Man has no real stake in Igbo struggles and is merely using the issue to gain attention and drive social media engagement.
Lack of Credibility and Influence
Several critics argue that Very Dark Man lacks the credibility and influence to mobilize the Igbo people. Unlike respected Igbo leaders and activists who have long championed the community’s cause, Very Dark Man is seen as an outsider with no deep understanding of Igbo history, culture, or struggles.
“You cannot influence an Igbo man to do a peaceful walk; you do not have the range, the respect, or the credibility,” one comment read.
Others accused him of being more focused on internet drama than real activism. “He thrives on ring lights and cheap clout,” another critic stated. “You press record and simultaneously turn off your brain.”
Why Not Focus on Edo or Yoruba Issues?
The debate has also sparked a wider conversation about ethnic activism in Nigeria. Many critics have questioned why Very Dark Man is so invested in Igbo affairs while neglecting issues within his own Edo community.
“Instead of clout-chasing with Ndigbo, why don’t you focus on your people?” one critic asked. “Edo State has its own share of problems—kidnapping, bad roads, failed governance. Why not channel your energy into fixing that?”
Others compared his sudden interest in Igbo matters to the lack of activism around Yoruba issues. “Why are you not mobilizing Yoruba people to protest the murder of MKO Abiola, a Yoruba man whose election was annulled by IBB? Why aren’t you pushing for justice there? Is it because you know they don’t rate you?”
The Igbo Spirit of Resistance
Some critics used the opportunity to highlight the resilience of the Igbo people, reminding Very Dark Man that Igbo struggles are not comparable to those of other ethnic groups in Nigeria.
“In the history of Nigeria, show me where your people fought a three-year war against the Nigerian state and world powers,” one response stated. “Show me where they stood their ground like the Igbos did during the Biafra war. You can’t, because you and your ancestors do not have that kind of resilience.”
The Bigger Question: Should Igbos Protest?
Amidst the heated exchanges, the fundamental question remains: should Igbos heed Very Dark Man’s call and take to the streets? For many, the answer is a resounding no.
While some acknowledge that the book’s revelations are troubling, they argue that Igbo activism must be calculated, not reactionary. Many believe that engaging in strategic political, economic, and intellectual battles is a more effective approach than protests that could lead to bloodshed.
As the debate continues to rage, it is clear that the conversation around Igbo identity, political activism, and the role of social media influencers in shaping public discourse is far from over. However, one thing remains certain: Igbo struggles cannot be dictated by outsiders, especially those with no real stake in the community’s future.
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