The invitation extended by Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, to controversial social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has ignited widespread debate on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the monarch’s decision in view of his long-standing criticism of traditional religious practices.
The monarch, in a letter personally signed by him and shared on his official Facebook page, praised the activist’s anti-corruption campaigns and formally requested him to visit the ancient city of Iwo.
The letter reads: “I write to formally request your visitation to the ancient city and palace of the Paramount Ruler of Iwoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi.
“For years, His Majesty, being a digital monarch with distinctive approach to traditional governance, has been one of the admirers of your transparent and accountability preachings. While Oluwo is checkmating corruption in the traditional institution, you are one of those fighting corruption in the government arena. Your revolutionary agitation through the Ratel Movement is acknowledged and deserves royal guidance.
“In lieu of this, His Majesty is ready to host you in his idol free ancient palace.
“We look forward to a convenient day and time for the visit.”
The invitation quickly stirred debate online, with several Facebook users expressing divergent opinions over the planned visit.
Reacting to …, Adenike Durodola Wahab wrote, “Hope you are aware that VDM is a Traditionalist. Àsìkò ẹ̀tẹ de.”
Ale Oluwaseun recalled the activist’s past criticism of the monarch, saying, “The same VDM that ask why Oluwo never get arrested by NDLEA .”
Another commenter, Akorede Adesina, simply queried the motive behind the invitation saying “as Minister of Defense way VDM be ba?”
Oyetunji Adedeji alleged that the invitation was politically motivated, writing, “Oluwo just want trend politically and influence.”
AS Josh Waju challenged the activist to confront the monarch if he eventually honours the invitation, stating, “With this event, I’ll know if VDM is indeed a man. I’ll be expecting him to tell the Oluwo the bitter truth that he should stop selling his people to the Fulanis and the Arabs.”
Muhammed Asiwaju Olanrewaju referenced the monarch’s previous comments about Islamic clerics, writing, “I swear with Almighty God you can fight with Elebo and win but don’t make mistake of fighting with real and original Sheikh like Sheikh Adam Abdullahi Al Alory. How can a king call all the first class Imams in a state failures just because of position and money? VDM ole tun oruko to ti baje se afi k’eto ro idarijin.”
Other reactions also weighed in on the invitation.
Omoba Dare Mesagan wrote, “You are now celebrating VDM visit. Nah wah ooo.”
Anibire Quawiyu Ayinde added, “Another headache is coming for people in Osun State.”
NAIJAONPOINT reports that the Oluwo has, over the years, consistently distanced himself from traditional religious practices, maintaining that his palace is “idol-free.” Since ascending the throne, the monarch has repeatedly criticised idol worship and advocated reforms within the traditional institution.
Recently, the monarch stirred controversy after condemning the age-long seclusion rite performed for newly installed kings, describing it as “idolatry” and alleging that the practice was designed to enslave monarchs and lure them into idol worship rather than prepare them for leadership. He maintained that kings do not require such rites to understand royalty and insisted that he had remained committed to serving God while enjoying the support of his subjects.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
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