Nigerian lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has stirred conversations online after declaring that social commentator and online personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), possesses a level of influence unmatched by anyone in the current generation.
Adeyanju shared the opinion in a social media post on the morning of June 16, shortly after VeryDarkMan reportedly participated in and led a public protest in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The demonstration was connected to growing public concern over reports involving the abduction of students and teachers, an incident that generated widespread reactions across Nigeria.
Reacting to the development and the turnout surrounding the protest, Adeyanju publicly acknowledged what he described as VDM’s exceptional ability to mobilise public attention and generate conversations on national issues.
According to the lawyer, no public figure in the current generation commands the same level of influence as the outspoken activist and content creator.
His statement quickly attracted thousands of reactions online, with supporters and critics sharing different opinions about the growing role of digital personalities in shaping public conversations in Nigeria.
VeryDarkMan has built a large online following through commentary on social issues, celebrity controversies, public accountability discussions, and trending national events.
Over time, his audience engagement and viral reach have made him one of Nigeria’s most discussed internet personalities.
Supporters of VDM often point to his ability to draw public attention to issues that may otherwise receive limited mainstream visibility.
Others argue that his direct communication style and consistent online presence have contributed significantly to his popularity among younger Nigerians.
The latest comments from Adeyanju reignited debates over what influence means in the era of social media and whether traditional public figures still hold the same level of public engagement.
Many users interpreted Adeyanju’s statement as recognition of the changing media landscape, where digital creators and independent voices can rapidly shape public opinion and drive conversations.
The Ibadan protest itself became a major talking point online, with discussions focusing not only on the reported abduction concerns but also on the power of online mobilisation.
As reactions continue across social media platforms, many observers say the discussion highlights how internet personalities increasingly influence public engagement and civic conversations in Nigeria.
Neither the praise nor the criticism surrounding VDM appears to be slowing his online momentum.
For now, Adeyanju’s statement has added another chapter to the ongoing conversation about influence, activism, social media power, and public engagement in Nigeria.
