The Nigeria Police Force has strongly condemned the unauthorized use of its official uniforms and accoutrements by an online personality, Mr. Martins Otse, popularly known as “VeryDarkMan,” in a video posted on his social media platforms.
In the viral video where he was seen adorning a police uniform, VDM introduced himself as CSP VeryDarkMan and Nigeria’s number one online police. He said he is dedicated to sanitising the social media space by using his platform to stand against oppressors, especially online vendors.
He added that unlike the regular police that will go through a lot of procedures and protocols, he will go straight to spoil the names of offenders brought before him with evidence.
The Force in a statement it released on Saturday, said it has launched an investigation into the circulating video.
“The Force unequivocally disassociates itself from this unauthorized portrayal and has launched a full investigation to determine the source of the Police gear used, as well as the authority under which he acted.
“It is important to remind the public that the unauthorized use of Police uniforms, insignia, or accoutrements constitutes a criminal offense, as stipulated in Section 251 of the Criminal Code Law and Section 133 of the Penal Code Law, and is subject to strict penalties,” the statement read in part.
The police said that while it recognizes and supports the creativity of young Nigerians in the content creation space, it strongly caution against the misuse of Police uniforms or symbols.
It added that unauthorized use of these items undermines the values and integrity of the Force and will not be tolerated.