…Police reveal that the family of the deceased had unequivocally distanced themselves from any form of public vigil or candlelight being held by VDM in his name.
AWKA, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has issued a stern warning to social media personality, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), urging him to refrain from actions or statements that could incite public unrest or compromise the state’s security.
The warning follows reports that VDM planned to participate in a candlelight procession for the late Ifesinachi Onyekere, Managing Director of Fish Magnet, who was recently shot dead by unknown gunmen in the state.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police revealed that the family of the deceased had unequivocally distanced themselves from any form of public vigil or memorial gathering being held in his name.
“The family of the late Mr. Onyekere has appealed for privacy in their time of grief and expressed full trust in the authorities to carry out a thorough investigation and deliver justice,” the statement noted.
CP Orutugu stressed that Anambra remains one of the most peaceful states in the South-East region, owing to ongoing efforts by security agencies and cooperation from residents.
“No individual, regardless of their popularity or social media presence, will be permitted to jeopardize the fragile peace and security architecture we have painstakingly built,” he said.
He further urged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, assuring the public of the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
The Commissioner also sounded a note of caution to social media users and public influencers, urging them to avoid inciting language or spreading unverified claims that could inflame tensions.
“Anyone, whether online or offline, found undermining public peace will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.
As investigations continue into Onyekere’s murder, the police have assured that all leads are being followed and that the culprits will be brought to book.
