Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has stirred intense reactions online following his visit to Jos after the deadly attack in Angwan Rukuba.
In a viral video, the outspoken activist was seen addressing residents of the community, urging them to defend themselves with improvised weapons in the face of continued insecurity.
He said,"Inasmuch as we don't want this to be political but at the end of the day, what are they doing? People of Angwan Rukuba, if you don't stand up for yourselves, If you can getter anything, i know if I say this now, they will say I am encouraging violence but to protect yourselves, violences is the only way"
His comments came in the aftermath of the March 30 attack, which reportedly left several people dead and many others injured.
Authorities have since imposed a 48-hour curfew across Jos North Local Government Area as security forces intensify efforts to restore calm.
The incident has once again brought attention to the recurring violence in Plateau State, where attacks linked to long-standing ethno-religious and communal tensions have continued to claim lives.
VeryDarkMan’s call for self-defense has received mixed reactions. While many online users expressed support, describing it as a response to what they see as state failure and delayed security intervention, others warned that such rhetoric could encourage vigilantism and escalate violence in an already fragile region.
See some comments and the video below
@GoKreativity___"That’s a very dangerous line to cross. VeryDarkMan might be speaking from frustration, but telling people to “defend themselves” in a tense situation can quickly spiral out of control. When emotions are high, messages like this can fuel more chaos instead of safety. What people need right now is calm, coordination, and proper security response — not escalation."
@fadafigure01___"The clout chaser has landed in Jos to chase clout as usual with people whose lives were cut short."
@wandypee___"It's your civic right to defend yourself but I'm sure he wrongly used the word by saying 'violence is the only way'. He better correct himself before it's used against him."
@AOchiawuto___"This VDMumu is a distraction, he likes to trend."
@msmocrown___"Without insecurity problems, with this one have a relevance. I don't blame him at all"
@LopezCisco30505__"In as much that I don't barely like vdm personality but I love his works. He is doing more than some governors"
@sportitout1___"Vdm telling people to protect themselves is right, this is no time to wait for government intervention anymore, it's time for proper action"
@marvis129___"Heartbreaking. At this point, silence is starting to feel like acceptance. We need action, not just reactions."
“People of Angwan Rukuba, gather anything and defend yourselves. I know they’ll say I’m encouraging vi0l£-nce, but do everything to protect yourselves"
— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) March 30, 2026
~ VeryDarkMan says in Jos
pic.twitter.com/JBJevhDhL7
