Police ask VDM to provide proof after saying officers help kidnappers

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has invited an activist named Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to bring evidence for his claim. He alleged that police officers at checkpoints share information about travelers with kidnappers and terrorists.

VDM made this claim during a panel session at the ongoing 2026 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The conference started on 21 August and is expected to end today.

He claimed that police officers at checkpoints along major roads identify wealthy travelers. They supposedly pass on details about these travelers to criminal gangs, which helps facilitate their abduction for ransom.

The activist also spoke about how cattle are being used for money laundering.

Police reject allegations

The NPF issued a statement through its spokesperson, Ani Iniedu, rejecting VDM’s claims. They called them "unsubstantiated."

The police said claims of this nature require proof. They emphasized that officers at checkpoints and other locations are there to prevent crime, detect criminal activity, and protect citizens, not to support kidnappings.

The police pointed out that their officers often face the same criminals accused of getting information from them. They mentioned that many policemen have been ambushed, attacked, and killed by terrorists, kidnappers, and other violent criminals.

Describing VDM’s claims as a "blanket" statement, the police said that hundreds of officers work under tough, poorly funded, and dangerous conditions.

But they promised to investigate allegations against individual officers who may have failed in their duties. If proven, those officers would face internal discipline and prosecution.

"But an entire institution should not be condemned based on a public statement made without evidence," the police said.

Police demand evidence

The police have now asked the activist to submit any evidence that backs his claims. They want proof that checkpoint officers identify wealthy travelers and pass that information to kidnappers.

The police promised to treat any credible evidence quickly and investigate it thoroughly.

They also encouraged anyone with evidence of police misconduct to use the proper reporting channels. This way, the allegations can be looked into and necessary actions taken.

While stressing their commitment to transparency and accountability, the police warned against making unverified claims about national security institutions.

They said valid criticism could help improve accountability, but unproven claims might harm public trust and endanger national security.

'I stand by my word' - VDM

Mr. Otse responded in a video on Facebook on Thursday. He said he stands by his claims and is ready to go before the police.

He stated that he would not give his evidence directly to the police but would present it in court if charged.

"My lawyers are on the ground. I see many Nigerians celebrating that I’ll be arrested. It’s really crazy," he said.

Mr. Otse mentioned that his time at the NBA conference allowed him to speak freely about insecurity. He pointed out what he sees as the institutions and individuals contributing to the problem.

"I’m proud of myself that right in their faces I said what I had to say and told them that the insecurity in Nigeria is aided by them. I stand by my word," he said.

He accused the police and military of benefiting from insecurity.

"They are the unknown gunmen. The police, military, immigration, customs are the unknown gunmen. They know what is going on in the country. They benefit from it. The governors and politicians benefit from these issues," he said.

He added that he is prepared for legal action over his claims.

"All these security agents that I mentioned can charge me to court. But for the police, I am ready for you," he said.