Despite apologising, Police arraign VeryDarkMan for wearing uniform, impersonation
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arraigned in court a blogger-cum-social critic, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM) over allegations of impersonation.
It all began after VeryDarkMan appeared in what appeared like a police uniform in a viral video on social media, introducing himself as the “Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) of the online division.”
The controversial activist also pledged his dedication to sanitising the social media space by using his platform to stand against oppressors, especially online vendors.
In response, the Police cautioned against the unauthorised use of its uniform and symbols by content creators, vowing to launch an investigation to determine the source of the uniform donned by the activist.
“The Force unequivocally disassociates itself from this unauthorised portrayal and has launched a full investigation to determine the source of the Police gear used, as well as the authority under which he acted.
“It is important to remind the public that the unauthorised use of Police uniforms, insignia, or accoutrements constitutes a criminal offence, as stipulated in Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law, and is subject to strict penalties,” the Police statement read in part.
Police arraign VeryDarkMan despite his apology
Making good on its vow, the NPF disclosed on Friday, November 1, 2024, that VeryDarkMan will appear in court to answer to allegations of impersonation related to the unauthorised use of its uniform.
“In response to recent developments, VDM, whose real name is Mr Martins Otse, is set to appear in court today following allegations of impersonation related to the unauthorised use of Nigeria Police Force uniforms in a viral social media video,” the law enforcement agency wrote on X.
“The FCT Police Command is actively handling the case, underscoring the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding the integrity of its symbols and preventing their misuse. Interested persons are encouraged to follow up on the proceedings as the case unfolds.”
VeryDarkMan’s arraignment comes a day after he apologised to the Police over his action, which he stressed was not intended to impersonate the law enforcement agency.
“I didn’t intend to impersonate the police in any way and I tender my unreserved apologies to the Nigeria police force and the office of the inspector general of police,” he had said.
“I would like to use the medium to tell the general public to always seek permission from the police or other law enforcement agencies before using anything that might look like their uniform.
“You might want to use it for good but there are others that might want to use it for bad, so it’s good to get full approval before using anything that might seem impersonating @nigeriapoliceforce,” the activist said in a video posted on social media.
