VDM leads Abuja protest over insecurity, kidnappings

Hundreds of protesters on Thursday took to the streets of Abuja, led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to demand government action against worsening insecurity, kidnappings and economic hardship across the country. The demonstrators marched through parts of the Federal Capital Territory, chanting slogans such as “Terrorists Must Go,” […]

Hundreds of protesters on Thursday took to the streets of Abuja, led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to demand government action against worsening insecurity, kidnappings and economic hardship across the country.

The demonstrators marched through parts of the Federal Capital Territory, chanting slogans such as “Terrorists Must Go,” “Kidnappers Must Go”, and “Bandits Must Go,” while accusing the government of failing to protect lives and property despite huge security spending.

The protest, which followed earlier demonstrations this week, attracted youths, civil society groups and other supporters.

Crowds gathered in areas including Apo, carrying placards expressing frustration over the persistent wave of attacks and abductions.

Security personnel were deployed to key locations, including the Presidential Villa, Eagle Square and other strategic areas, while traffic was disrupted in parts of the city.

Addressing the protesters, VDM said Nigerians were tired of the growing insecurity and questioned the impact of funds allocated to the security sector.

“We can no longer travel freely because bandits are taking over communities. Security funds must be properly utilised to address this crisis,” he said.

He also criticised the recurring abduction of schoolchildren and the welfare conditions of security personnel, arguing that many officers were being deployed against heavily armed criminals under difficult circumstances.

The protesters later marched towards the Federal Ministry of Defence and the office of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, renewing calls for stronger and more coordinated action against kidnappers, bandits and terrorist groups.