Nigerian social media activist and influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has sparked widespread reactions online after a viral video in which he criticized the culture of vote-buying and urged Nigerians not to exchange their votes for cash ahead of future elections.
Speaking in a video announcing a civic awareness campaign around the Karu Bridge area of Abuja, VDM questioned why some voters continue to accept small sums of money from politicians during election periods despite the country’s economic and governance challenges. According to him, politicians often become highly visible and approachable during campaigns but disappear after securing electoral victories.
In the viral message, he said:
“We’re going to Karu bridge today to preach the word. Nobody should collect ₦10,000 or ₦5,000 from APC. Is it that Nigerians don’t have sense? If Nigeria happens to you, you won’t see politicians in your house, but during elections, you’ll see them at the market, eating corn, playing with you and dashing you ₦5,000. When will you wise up?”
The statement quickly gained traction on social media, with supporters praising his call for political accountability and voter enlightenment. Many users argued that vote-buying has remained one of the factors weakening Nigeria’s democratic process, as elected officials often fail to deliver on campaign promises after securing votes through financial inducements. Others, however, accused VDM of singling out one political party and injecting partisanship into his advocacy.
The activist has built a large following through his outspoken commentary on corruption, governance, social justice, and public accountability. Over the years, he has become one of Nigeria’s most influential online voices, frequently mobilizing discussions on issues affecting ordinary citizens.
His latest remarks come amid increasing public conversations about electoral integrity, voter education, and the role of citizens in strengthening democracy. Political analysts have repeatedly warned that vote-buying undermines free and fair elections by encouraging voters to prioritize immediate financial benefits over long-term governance outcomes. While Nigeria’s electoral laws prohibit the practice, reports of politicians allegedly offering cash or gifts to influence voters continue to surface during election seasons.
The video has continued to circulate across various social media platforms, generating debate about the responsibility of voters, the conduct of political parties, and the need for greater civic awareness ahead of future elections.