The Nigeria Police Force has criticized social media figure Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, for wearing an official police uniform without permission in a recent video.
In the viral video, shared on his social media, Otse appeared in police attire, introducing himself as “CSP VeryDarkMan” and claiming to be Nigeria’s “number one online police officer.”
VeryDarkMan explained that his mission is to “clean up” social media by exposing wrongdoers, particularly targeting fraudulent online vendors. He claimed he would reveal offenders’ identities immediately if there is proof, unlike official police who follow procedures.
Reacting to the video, police spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi announced that an investigation is underway to find out where the police gear used in the video came from. The Force emphasized it does not endorse the portrayal of police officers in this way.
In a statement, the Nigeria Police condemned Otse’s unauthorized use of police uniforms and made it clear it is investigating the origin of the police gear and his reasons for wearing it.
The Force also warned that while it appreciates young Nigerians’ creativity in content creation, it opposes the misuse of police symbols. Unauthorized use of police uniforms damages the Force’s values and reputation, and it won’t be tolerated.
The police further reminded the public that wearing police uniforms or using official symbols without permission is a criminal offense, according to Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law.
