The Nigeria Police Force, Plateau State Command, has denied involvement in investigating claims of ₦180 million allegedly stolen from the account of a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) owned by popular social media critic, Martins Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

In a viral video shared on Friday, VDM alleged that the substantial sum was siphoned by a hacker who compromised the NGO’s website. According to him, a suspect connected to the theft was reportedly arrested in Jos, Plateau State.

Speaking with TalkTalk Nigeria on Saturday, Alfred Alabo, the Police Public Relations Officer for Plateau State Command, dismissed the claim, saying, “We don’t know anything about that. We are not investigating it. Kindly contact FCT Command to know if the matter was reported to them.”

Similarly, the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command stated that they were “not aware of the matter.”

The Controversy Around the Claims

The video has sparked widespread debate and skepticism online, with critics questioning the credibility of the allegations. Some have raised concerns about the lack of formal reports to law enforcement agencies, while others have criticized VDM for going public without clear evidence or proper follow-up.

Supporters of the social media critic, however, have rallied around him, urging transparency in uncovering the truth.

Opinion: The Need for Responsibility in Public Discourse

The claims by VDM, a figure known for his blunt criticism of societal issues, highlight the delicate balance between raising awareness and ensuring accountability. While his intention to expose an alleged crime might be commendable, the lack of corroborating details from law enforcement weakens the credibility of his assertion.

This incident underscores the importance of responsibly handling sensitive information, especially when addressing matters of public trust. Allegations of this magnitude require thorough investigation and collaboration with authorities, not just social media declarations.

For now, the public awaits clarity. Was the alleged theft a genuine crime, or is this a case of misunderstanding? The answer lies in diligent fact-finding, not viral videos.

As VDM’s followers call for justice, it’s crucial to remember that in an era of instant information, truth and accountability must remain paramount.