The Nigerian Bar Association has come under criticism over its decision to invite social media activist, Mr. Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to speak on national security at its Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt and subsequently honour him with an award.
Niger Delta leader, Chief Zik Gbemre, in a statement issued on Friday, described the development as a departure from what he called the NBA’s longstanding tradition of promoting legal excellence, civil liberties and intellectual leadership.
Gbemre argued that issues of national security, particularly the protection of critical energy infrastructure and the fight against illegal oil bunkering, require proven field experience and specialised knowledge.
He questioned the decision to feature VeryDarkMan in discussions on national security, asking whether social media influence and online content creation should qualify an individual as a national security expert.
The activist said the NBA could have engaged individuals with longstanding experience in the Niger Delta and the protection of oil and gas infrastructure.
He specifically mentioned Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and himself as individuals who, according to him, have spent years dealing with issues surrounding oil and gas assets and communities in the Niger Delta.
Gbemre also expressed concern that the NBA’s decision could diminish the legacy of prominent Nigerian civil rights and pro-democracy figures who, according to him, made significant sacrifices in defending democracy and constitutional governance.
He cited the contributions of legal and civil rights figures, including Gani Fawehinmi, Femi Falana, Beko Ransome-Kuti, Anthony Enahoro, Olu Onagoruwa and other pro-democracy and labour activists.
According to him, the legal profession should remain anchored on intellectual rigour and professional excellence rather than social media popularity.
Gbemre called on the NBA leadership to explain the criteria used in selecting VeryDarkMan for the conference and the decision to honour him with an award.
He further demanded disciplinary action against whoever he alleged championed the invitation and award, arguing that the decision had the potential to damage the reputation of the legal profession.
“The NBA must stop chasing viral trends and return to its core mandate: defending constitutional governance, upholding intellectual rigor, and honoring the noble heritage of Nigeria’s civil rights pioneers,” Gbemre said.
He maintained that the NBA should preserve its reputation as a professional body committed to the rule of law, civil liberties and national development.
