"The Problem Is That The Son Of A Nobody Was Invited" — VeryDarkMan Fires Back at Femi Falana Over NBA Controversy
Social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) has responded to the criticism trailing his invitation to speak at the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference.
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In a new video statement, VDM addressed comments made by renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, regarding his inclusion as a speaker at the prestigious legal gathering.
Background: Why VDM's NBA Invitation Caused a Stir
VeryDarkMan was listed as a speaker at the NBA conference to discuss issues around security in Nigeria. His invitation sparked a heated debate among lawyers and on social media, with many questioning whether a social media activist was qualified to speak at a professional conference for legal practitioners.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana had weighed in on the debate, stating that individuals invited to discuss security should have relevant expertise and practical experience in the field.
VDM's Response: It's About Classism, Not Qualification
Reacting to Falana's position, VeryDarkMan said he was initially disappointed by the senior lawyer's submission, but that it later helped him understand the root of the backlash.
According to VDM, the controversy is not genuinely about his qualifications to speak on security.
"Their problem is that the son of a nobody was invited,"- VDM stated.
He argued that security is an issue that affects every Nigerian, regardless of status, and that his direct experiences and interactions with ordinary citizens give him a valid perspective.
VDM Questions Justice System and Defends His Activism
In his response, the activist also questioned the effectiveness of the justice system for the common man. He claimed that many Nigerians who feel let down by the system now turn to social media activists for intervention.
VDM stated that he has personally intervened in several cases, helping ordinary Nigerians recover their money and get justice.
He challenged Femi Falana and other senior lawyers to show their tangible contributions to national development, insisting that he can point to his own.
On His Comments About The Nigerian Police
VeryDarkMan also clarified his previous comments about the Nigeria Police Force. He said he has consistently advocated for better welfare, pay, and working conditions for police officers.
He maintained, however, that he will continue to criticize officers whom he alleges are involved in compromising security by sharing information with criminals.
Addressing his attendance at the NBA event, VDM was blunt:
"If not for that topic, you won't catch me in a place like that."
He concluded that the backlash against his invitation says more about elitism and class divide in the country than about his capacity to contribute to a national conversation.
Nigerians React Online
The exchange between Femi Falana and VeryDarkMan has continued to generate divided opinions online. While some Nigerians support Falana's call for expertise-based invitations, others agree with VDM that lived experience and grassroots advocacy deserve a seat at the table.
What do you think? Did VeryDarkMan deserve a seat at the NBA conference? Let us know in the comments.
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