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VeryDarkMan: A pain to many
VeryDarkMan: A pain to many
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By Benjamin Njoku
His name didn’t ring a bell with some social media users before now. But suddenly, Martins Vincent Otse popularly known as VeryDarkMan ,VDM, has become a formidable force in the Nigerian digital space.
In fact, the fear of VDM is the beginning of wisdom, as many of his victims, whom he has dragged on social media platforms for one reason or the other, will live to tell their stories in a hard way.
For some, VDM is a refreshing and fearless crusader, while others see the Edo state born social media activist as an enemy of society,who’s propagating hate, provocation and intolerance. But like him or hate him, VDM remains the new conscience of the society, whose mission is to fight against injustice no matter whose ox is gored as well as helping others. Since his emergence on the digital space a few months back, VDM has fought many fearless battles, stepped on many toes and ended up cooling his feet in the police custody.
His boldness has earned him a large following on social media, having been using his platform to speak out against social injustices and hypocrisy. Though his modus operandi may have been called into question, with many accusing him of normalizing hate and toxicity. But VDM is highly unrepentant of his provocative videos, statements and commentaries on social media.
One of his most recent and widely publicized confrontations was his battle with Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin, founder and head prophet of MercyLand Deliverance Ministry, Warri, Delta State. His feud with the Prophet stemmed from the commercialization of religious items, with VDM accusing Jeremiah of exploiting his followers by selling items such as miracle water and soap which he claimed could perform miracles.
The clash quickly escalated, drawing supporters and detractors from both sides, to a point that the prophet threatened a N1bn lawsuit against the popular social critic, which he later dropped, after VDM stormed the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) office, where he filed a complaint against Prophet Jeremiah’s products. Eventually, the clergyman was forced to reverse his decision to sell his popular miracle water and soap to his church members again.
VDM’s latest battle, which is currently making headlines has do with the viral audio he released on Instagram days back, where the controversial cross-dresser Bobrisky was said to have bribed some unnamed EFCC operatives with N15 million to drop money laundering charges against him, prior to his being sent to prison for abuse of the naira.
The allegation has since gone viral, drawing the attention of both the government and the different professional bodies and agencies, including the EFCC, who has constituted a team of investigators to look into the allegations.
This is even as popular rapper, Folarin Falana, aka Falz and his human rights lawyer-father, Femi Falana, who are also joined in the saga have threatened legal action against the fearless VDM. Both father and the son are demanding a retraction within 24 hours of VeryDarkMan’s remarks insinuating that Falz and his father were going to procure presidential pardon for convicted Bobrisky. However, responding to the threat, VDM denied defaming Femi Falana, saying “Uncle Femi Falana is someone that I respect 100 per cent, not because of his position as a SAN but because of what he has used the position to do, representing people like me that speak against ills in the society”. On Falz, VDM said, ”I expected you to address your letter to Bobrisky that called your name in that recording and not to me. I did not defame you”
Not long ago, VDM also called out the likes of Iyabo Ojo, Tonto Dikeh, Ashumsy among others that sparked uncontrollable reactions on social media. In the case of Ashumsy, a social media influencer who received N1 million from a small businessman for advertising services but failed to deliver, VDM called her out on social media, which forced her to return the money unconditionally, while crying and begging the social crusader to let her be. Indeed, many are wondering about the role VDM has assigned to himself as another Shakespare’s ‘Daniel’ in Merchant of Venice that has come to judgment.
By Nicolas Leighton
In the journey of building a successful business, many entrepreneurs find themselves wearing every hat-juggling sales, operations, customer service, and beyond. But as the business grows, so does the need for a team and with it, a new challenge emerges :learning to let go.
For many business owners, delegation feels like a risk. There’s a fear that employees won’t meet the high standards set by the founder-often for good reason. After all, no one is likely to match the owner’s passion or commitment. But real growth demands more than personal efforts’, it requires a team that not only supports the vision but is empowered to help drive it forward.
The secret to successful delegation lies not in simply offloading tasks, but in transforming team members into strategic contributors. Here’s how smart entrepreneurs are doing it.
Share the vision – and the “Why” Behind it
Leadership is more than issuing directives ‘, it’s about aligning everyone with a common purpose. Business owners must go beyond surface – level goals and communicate the deeper mission that drives their decisions. When teams understand the purpose behind the work and see how their roles fit into the broader vision – they become more invested in the outcome.
One way to do this is through transparency. Sharing key business data, including Financials and performance metrics can foster trust and give employees context for their efforts. It shifts their perspective from executing tasks to being part of a bigger journey
Empower, Don’t Micromanage
Entrepreneurs often fall into the trap of micromanagement, believing it’s the only way to maintain quality. But micromanaging stiles innovation and undermines trust. Instead of assigning isolated tasks,business leaders should hand over full processes or projects, allowing team members to take ownership from start to finish.
Delegation should be outcome – based – focused on the result rather than the method.
This approach gives employees the freedom to make decisions within clear boundaries. For example, managers might be empowered to approve expenses up to a certain limit, encouraging initiative without losing oversight.
Equally important is preventing “reverse delegation”, where problems are handed back up to the owner. Instead, leaders should encourage solution – oriented thinking, promoting staff to propose answers rather than than rely on top – down problem – solving.
Incentivize Impact
Passion can’t be expected without purpose – and a paycheck alone rarely ignites high engagement. Motivation a team means understanding what drives them individually. While financial incentives like bonuses or profit-sharing can be effective , non-monetary rewards such as flexible work hours, additional time off or professional growth opportunities can be equally compelling.
Each employee is different. and it’s the leader’s job to identify what motivates their team and align incentives with company goals.
Build a Culture of Feedback
Delegation is a dynamic skill that improves over time through open dialogue. When expectations aren’t met, it’s often due to unclear instructions or lack of resources – not incompetence. Rather than abandoning delegation after one poor result, leaders should establish regular feedback loops. Constructive conversation helps clarify expectations and refine processes for better outcomes.
Ultimately, delegation isn’t just a management tactic – it’s a leadership necessity. It takes practice, patience, and sometimes outside support. Working with a business coach can provide the perspective and strategies needed to delegate effectively and lead with confidence.
In today’s fast – moving business world, the most successful entrepreneurs aren’t those who do it all themselves – they’re the ones who build teams capable of thinking and acting with ownership. When done right, delegation doesn’t just lighten the load – it multiplie the impact.
By Prof. Benedict Binebai
Oporoza, sacred heart of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, pulsates with ancient rhythms and whispers of the past. This hallowed town, steeped in mystique, beckons travellers to partake in its vibrant traditions and customs. As a cultural lodestar, Oporoza draws seekers of knowledge and wisdom, offering a glimpse into the soul of the Gbaramatu people.
Born from the ashes of military invasion, Oporoza stands as a testament to the resilience of a community that refused to be silenced. Its people, driven by a fierce determination to resist political oppression, economic exploitation, and environmental degradation, rose from the ruins to reclaim their heritage and rebuild their lives.
Right now, at the Amaseikumor Festival, the air is alive with the beat of drums, the sway of traditional dance, and the warmth of hospitality. Visitors are enveloped in a world of artisanal splendour, where local crafts and cuisine weave a tale of resilience and creativity. The Gbaramatu Kingdom’s heritage reveals the community’s unyielding spirit, a symphony of myth and legend that echoes through the ages of history and culture.
At the Oporoza sacred spaces, history and myth converge, revealing the mysteries of a people bound to their land and traditions. The town’s cultural gravity warps time and space, drawing all who enter into its orbit of wonder and discovery. As a keeper of ancient tales and customs, Oporoza stands sentinel, guarding the essence of the Gbaramatu Kingdom.
Leadership and Legacy
At the heart of Oporoza’s resurgence is High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, a prince of the esteemed Okenrenkoko ruling house of Gbaramatu As a spiritual master of the revered ancient Agadagba status, Chief Ekpemupolo embodies the wisdom, strength, and charisma that have guided his people through generations.
His leadership has been instrumental in fostering prosperity, peace, and cultural revival in Oporoza. Through his vision and dedication, the community has experienced a renaissance with a renewed focus on traditional values, arts, and heritage.
As a symbol of hope and resilience, Chief Ekpemupolo’s legacy continues to inspire and unite the people of Gbaramatu, ensuring the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage endures for generations to come.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
Chief Government Ekpemupolo’s vision for the annual cultural festival strongly expresses his deep love for Ijaw tradition and identity. By celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, he aims to spiritually reconnect with the past, honouring the ancestors and traditions that have shaped the community.
Through this magnus opus, Chief Ekpemupolo seeks to share the values of Ijaw tradition with the world, promoting love, kindness, and oneness. The festival transcends revenue generation, focusing on cultural exchange, education, and mutual understanding.
It’s an opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds to experience the vibrant culture of the Gbaramatu Kingdom. By taking Ijaw tradition to the global arena, Chief Ekpemupolo’s initiative fosters greater appreciation and respect for the community’s heritage.
The festival becomes a platform for intercultural dialogue, enriching both the local community and global audiences. Through this celebration, Chief Ekpemupolo’s vision of love, kindness, and oneness resonates worldwide.
May Oporoza’s cultural flame continue to burn bright, illuminating the path for generations to come, and may its people forever thrive, their heritage, a beacon of hope and identity in a rapidly changing world.
By Prof. Benedict Binebai
As the celestial drums of the gods beat in harmony with the rhythmic waves of the Niger Delta, the Amaseikumor Fiesta awakens, summoning all from the four cardinal po8nts to witness the grandeur of Gbaramatu’s rich cultural heritage! Come and behold the majestic procession of colourful masquerades, the symbolic embodiment of the ancestral spirits that guard the kingdom.
The Amaseikumor fiesta is here again, Immerse yourself in the splendour of Gbaramatu and the ijaw nation. a resplendent celebration of Gbaramatu’s rich cultural heritage!
Come and witness the majestic procession of colourful masquerades, the rhythmic cadence of traditional drums, and the vibrant display of ancestral worship.
Be moved by the primal essence of the Ijaw course through your veins as you revel in the grandeur of this ancient kingdom.
Do not hesitate to be present to unveil the mystique ofAmaseikumor Festival by stepping into the enchanting realms of Festival, where the veil and physical realms of spiritual worlds is lifted!
You will marvel at the elaborate rituals, the symbolic dances, and the reverent homage paid to the gods of the land. As the festival’s primal energy courses through the air, you will be transported to a world of ancient wisdom, mystical power, and timeless beauty.
Get ready to be electrified by Amaseikumor Oge, Gbaramatu’s most screened and anticipated cultural extravaganza! This spectacular celebration is a symphony of colours, sounds, and rhythms that will leave you breathless and yearning for more. From the pulsating beats of the drums to the dazzling display of traditional attire, every moment of this festival is an aesthetic and spiritual establishment of the indomitable spirit and creative genius of the Gbaramatu people.
Join the legendary journey of discovery of Amaseikumor Festival where the ancient traditions and mystical energies of Gbaramatu await your arrival!. As you navigate the festival’s vibrant landscape, you will encounter a rich fabric of cultural practices, time-honoured rituals, and warm hospitality. The rise and fall of the pleasant sea waves, the pacific wind, and the melody of earthly sounds are erected to welcome you. Whether you are a curious traveller, a cultural enthusiast, a prince of tourism or simply a seeker of new experiences, this festival promises to be an unforgettable journey of discovery and enchantment.