Expressing his views, controversial social media critic, VeryDarkMan (real name Martin Otse), emphasized that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, does not have the authority to dictate where protests can take place in Abuja.
In a scene preceding the moment when protesters were tear-gassed at the Berger Roundabout in Abuja on Friday, VeryDarkMan asserted that there was no necessity for them to relocate to the stadium, insisting they were not athletes like Victor Osimhen or Jay Jay Okocha.
Asserting the right of Nigerian citizens to peaceful protest, VeryDarkMan stated firmly, “We are not animals, we are not followers. Wike does not have the power to direct us to the stadium for our protest. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and protesting is our fundamental right.”
Subsequently, in another video clip, the social media critique addressed Wike directly, declaring, “Wike, this is not the Nigeria we envision. Our goal is not to engage in conflict with anyone. Take a look at the actions of your associates. It is our right to voice our dissent through peaceful protest.”
The ongoing nationwide protest, which commenced on Thursday in Abuja and other regions, aims to highlight the urgent need to eliminate hunger and address governance deficiencies in the country.