Five Formidable Facts About Very Dark Man (a.k.a. VeryDarkBlackMan, and VDM)

In the rapidly evolving landscape of social media, few figures stand out as much as the controversial Online Police known as Very Dark Man (VDM). Born Martins Vincent Otse in Nigeria on April 8, 1994, VDM has garnered a substantial following thanks to his unyielding stance against various malpractices. Below are five formidable facts that shed light on his journey and principles.

Ad-Free Advocacy

Unlike many influencers who monetize their platforms through advertisements and promotional content, VDM has made a principled decision to maintain an ad-free environment on his platforms. He has chosen not to accept financial incentives for promoting products, which aligns him with the ethos of Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician known for his unapologetic critiques of wealth and power.

Instead of promoting products for profit, VDM often uses his platform to raise awareness about potentially harmful items, specifically those lacking approval from Nigeria's National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). His efforts have successfully led to the deplatforming of several notorious health-related and skin care products, showcasing his commitment to consumer safety and public health.

VDM' s Self-Identification as Online Police

While many may classify VDM as an activist, he prefers to identify as an "Online Police". This distinction is significant, as it underscores his focus on oversight and accountability rather than pursuing political motives, a common practice among many contemporary activists. VDM’s approach is driven by a commitment to combatting fraud and misinformation online. VDM believes that the title of "activist" can sometimes be conflated with political opportunism, making his self-designation an essential part of his identity. His commitment to maintaining integrity in the digital space resonates with his followers, many of whom share his disdain for capitalist exploitation within social media.

VDM's Political Neutrality

VDM has consistently maintained a neutral stance regarding political endorsements. He emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making in the electoral process, urging his followers to thoroughly evaluate candidates based on character and policies rather than the influence of social media. VDM has publicly shared instances where he turned down invitations from politicians seeking to leverage his influence for their gain, particularly during elections in Edo State. This pioneering perspective serves as a critical reminder that social media influence can play a role in political landscapes, and it is essential to navigate that influence wisely.

Inspiration from Fela Kuti

Fela Kuti’s impact on artists and activists in Nigeria is enduring, and VDM is no exception. In a recent video post, VDM cited Kuti as his greatest role model, expressing deep admiration for the late musician’s fearless critique of societal injustices. He also acknowledges the work of Femi Falana, Kuti's lawyer, as emblematic of the kind of advocacy he aspires to emulate. By drawing inspiration from such powerful figures, VDM situates his own work within a legacy of resistance against injustice and exploitation, amplifying his message and reaching a broader audience.

VDM's Past as a Sexual Content Creator

Before venturing into his current role as an 'Online Police', VDM created sexual content that focused on gestures and poses rather than intercourse. He has admitted to earning a significant income from this earlier work. In 2023, when attempts were made to tarnish his reputation through the dissemination of his past content, VDM responded defiantly.

He stated that he had "never had an image to tarnish" and pointed to his previous social media profiles to assert his narrative. By not deleting these profiles, VDM demonstrated an unusual level of transparency and resilience in facing potential scandals—a stance that many in the public eye might find hard to adopt in the face of similar threats. This bold response further reinforces his commitment to authenticity and his immunity to online blackmail.

In conclusion, Very Dark Man has carved out a unique niche for himself in the crowded arena of online influencers. His principled advocacy against misleading products, political neutrality, inspiration from iconic figures, and candid acknowledgment of his past create a multifaceted persona that resonates with many. As he continues to navigate the complexities of social media, his commitment to honesty and consumer protection will likely remain at the forefront of his mission.