Police investigate VeryDarkMan for unauthorized use of uniform
Police authorities in Nigeria have launched an investigation into a viral video featuring controversial social media activist, Mr Martins ‘VeryDarkMan’.
In the video posted on his official Instagram page, VeryDarkMan donned a police uniform and referred to himself as the Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) of an ‘online division.
Meanwhile, in a statement on Sunday, the police condemned VDM’s unauthorized use of the uniform and related accessories.
The force stated that a comprehensive inquiry is underway to identify the source of the police gear he wore and to determine whether any official permission was granted for its use.
The statement also highlighted that unauthorized use of police uniforms or insignia is a criminal offense under Nigerian law, citing Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law.
‘’The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns the unauthorized use of official uniforms and accoutrements by an online personality, Mr. Martins Otse, popularly known as “VDM,” in a video posted on his social media platforms.
“The Force unequivocally disassociates itself from this unauthorized portrayal and has launched a full investigation to determine the source of the Police gear used, as well as the authority under which he acted.
“It is important to remind the public that the unauthorized use of Police uniforms, insignia, or accoutrements constitutes a criminal offense, as stipulated in Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law, and is subject to strict penalties.
“While the Nigeria Police Force recognizes and supports the creativity of young Nigerians in the content creation space, we strongly caution against the misuse of Police uniforms or symbols. Unauthorized use of these items undermines the values and integrity of the Force and will not be tolerated.”