Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, has criticized the arrest of Martin Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), stating that the manner of his arrest has caused unease among many Nigerians.
In a statement released on Sunday, Obi described VDM’s arrest as resembling an abduction, “a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements.”
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He emphasized that if Nigerians struggle to differentiate between lawful arrests and unlawful abductions, “we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.”
“This trend is not new. We must recall that even our esteemed judges, the last line of defence for justice, have suffered similar indignities in recent years. When those who interpret the law are treated with such disregard, it is difficult to expect that ordinary citizens will feel protected under the law,” he said.
Obi expressed concern that these methods are beginning to negatively impact the economy and business environment.
He stated, “The backlash directed at GTBank, allegedly linked to the circumstances surrounding Mr. Otse’s arrest, has had serious reputational consequences. At a time when investor confidence is already fragile, we must do all we can to avoid actions that tarnish institutions or undermine the trust of both citizens and the international community.”
“One cannot help but ask: was it impossible to invite Mr. Otse in a civil, transparent, and legal manner? Would that not have spared Nigerians, GTBank, and our national image the unnecessary shame and losses we now witness?”
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