VDM alleges DSS contacted him over planned ADC protest
Verydarkman (Martins Vincent Otse), a prominent Nigerian social media critic, alleges that a Department of State Services (DSS) agent contacted him on Tuesday morning (April 7) regarding a purported plan to stage nationwide protests. According to VDM's Facebook post, the DSS caller asked about the motive behind the alleged demonstration, claiming he and unnamed others had been 'contracted' by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to lead unrest over INEC's recent actions.
DAILY POST reports that INEC had earlier suspended recognition of ADC's leadership—stripping former Senate President David Mark (national chairman) and former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola (national secretary) of their positions. INEC reportedly acted following an Appeal Court judgment and a legal challenge by factional leader Nafiu Bala Gombe.
ADC, which had been adopted by opposition figures for the 2027 general elections, now accuses President Bola Tinubu's administration of orchestrating the crisis to weaken opposition. While VDM denies any involvement in protest planning, his allegation suggests DSS is already monitoring potential unrest. ADC's accusation of government interference raises concerns about electoral fairness ahead of 2027.
This confrontation highlights deepening political tensions. If ADC's leadership decertification stands, it could disrupt opposition coordination. DSS's reported inquiries into protest planning signal potential government readiness to suppress dissent.
Should civil society brace for increased security crackdowns on political expression? How will ADC rebuild its coalition for 2027 elections after losing key leadership figures?