Born on April 8, 1994, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan or VDM, is a Nigerian social media influencer, activist, critic, and philanthropist. He is prominent in the Nigerian social media landscape for his controversial commentary and advocacy on various issues. 

He was born in Kaduna state, Nigeria, and is originally from Agenebode, Edo State. Family: Contrary to rumors of a wealthy background, he has stated that his father is a mechanic and his mother cares for other people’s children.

Education: VDM reportedly holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Lagos.

VeryDarkMan Rise to prominence Online Career:

VeryDarkMan launched his social media activism in 2022, and he initially garnered attention by interacting with Nigerian celebrities.

Viral Content: His content went viral in early 2023, primarily because of his controversial videos and outspoken nature.

Recognition: In June 2023, musician Davido publicly endorsed him, and in January 2024 he was nominated for Silverbird’s Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year award.

Known for Criticism and Advocacy: He is known for using his platform to condemn societal injustice, corruption, crime, and insecurity in Nigeria.

Anti-fraud Activism: He gained significant attention for confronting a skincare brand, Jenny Glow, over an allegedly harmful product and for exposing online vendors selling unregulated products.

Philanthropy

He is a self-proclaimed philanthropist who has funded projects, such as providing clean water to a community in 2024. However, his net worth remains unclear.

Social Commentary: He is often describe as the voice of the voiceless and the President of Ratel gang, referring to his followers.

Controversies and legal issues Cyberbullying Allegations:

In 2025, authorities re-arraigned him for allegedly cyberbullying Nollywood actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh.

Arrest: Nigerian authorities, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have arrested him multiple times based on petitions against him.

Feuds: He has engaged in public disputes with other public figures, such as rapper Falz; moreover, these disputes revolve around allegations regarding legal cases.

Blord Arrest: He was involved in the petition that led to the arrest of fellow influencer and entrepreneur Blord in 2024, claiming to act on behalf of defrauded customers.

Fund Handling: “Blord later called him out over alleged missing funds from his NGO; consequently, he accused him of mishandling public donations, which VeryDarkMan denied.”

Net Worth:

VeryDarkMan has an estimated net worth of over $300,000 approximately ₦440 million.

VeryDarkMan, traveled to China in 2025 to connect directly with manufacturers and explore business opportunities for Nigerians. He has been actively sharing his experiences and progress on social media. 

Business Mission: He stated that his primary goal was to bypass middlemen and establish direct links with manufacturers of various goods, including electronics. He claims this will help reduce costs and combat fraudulent business practices that harm Nigerian entrepreneurs.

Promoting Opportunities: He has showcased factories producing a range of goods, from building materials to household appliances, to introduce business opportunities to his Nigerian audience. In March 2025, he introduced an affordable power backup system aimed at university students and people in low-income areas.

China Travel and Social Experience: “Besides business, he has shared his personal travel experiences; furthermore, he described the country as beautiful, with friendly and kind people.” In March 2025, he was warmly received by Nigerians living in China. “Besides business, he has shared his personal travel experiences; furthermore, he described the country as beautiful, with friendly and kind people.”