Nigerian social media critic and activist, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has revealed that Afrobeats star Burna Boy once warned him about the dangers of constantly fighting for Nigerians.
VeryDarkMan disclosed while speaking about his activism, public criticism and the pressure that comes with using social media to challenge issues affecting Nigerians.
According to the controversial social commentator, Burna Boy warned him that the same Nigerians he is defending could eventually turn against him despite his efforts on their behalf.
VeryDarkMan said Burna Boy told him that fighting for Nigerians can be emotionally exhausting and may eventually expose him to hostility from the very people he is trying to help.
Quoting the Grammy-winning singer, VeryDarkMan said, “These people, they will put a knife in your neck. Fighting for Nigerians is tiring.”
VeryDarkMan has built a reputation for speaking openly about social issues, government policies, celebrities, public institutions and matters affecting ordinary Nigerians.
Through his social media platforms, he has frequently criticised individuals and organisations while calling for accountability and transparency.
His activism has attracted both strong support and criticism, with some Nigerians praising his willingness to speak about issues they believe are often ignored by public figures.
However, his approach has also generated controversy, particularly when his comments involve celebrities, politicians and other influential personalities.
Reflecting on his experiences, VeryDarkMan acknowledged that publicly fighting for social causes comes with significant pressure.
He explained that Burna Boy’s warning was based on the singer’s own experience with public opinion and the unpredictable nature of people’s reactions.
According to VeryDarkMan, Burna Boy’s message was essentially a warning that public support can be temporary.
He suggested that people may applaud someone when their actions appear to benefit them but could quickly turn against that same person when circumstances change.
The statement about people eventually putting “a knife” in his neck was presented as a figurative warning about betrayal, hostility and the risks of becoming heavily involved in public battles.
VeryDarkMan’s disclosure has consequently generated discussions about activism in Nigeria and the challenges faced by individuals who publicly advocate for others.
The social media critic’s comments also highlight the emotional burden associated with activism.
People who consistently speak out on behalf of others often face criticism, online attacks, threats and accusations from different sides.
In Nigeria, social media has become an important platform for citizens to express grievances and demand accountability. However, it has also created an environment where public figures and activists can quickly become targets of intense criticism.
VeryDarkMan has experienced both sides of that reality.
His ability to attract large audiences has given him considerable influence, but it has also made his controversies more visible.
Burna Boy is one of Nigeria’s most internationally recognised musicians and has previously expressed strong opinions on social and political issues.
The singer has also used his platform to comment on matters affecting Nigerians and the wider African society.
VeryDarkMan’s revelation therefore adds another dimension to the relationship between Nigerian celebrities and social activists.
While it is unclear when exactly Burna Boy made the alleged statement, VeryDarkMan presented it as advice from someone who understands the difficulties associated with public advocacy.
The revelation is expected to spark further debate among Nigerians, particularly on whether activists should keep fighting for people who may not always appreciate their efforts.
Some may view Burna Boy’s alleged warning as a realistic observation about human behaviour, while others may argue that genuine activism should not depend on public appreciation.
For VeryDarkMan, however, the comments underline the challenges he faces as he continues to speak publicly about issues he believes affect Nigerians.
His latest revelation has once again placed his activism in the spotlight, with many Nigerians now discussing the price of speaking out, public loyalty and the difficult relationship between activists and the people they represent.
As conversations continue online, VeryDarkMan’s statement reminds us that public advocacy can bring both influence and significant personal pressure.
