Popular social media critic, VeryDarkMan, has challenged youths in Benue State to redirect their ability to mobilise against political figures towards confronting the insecurity and violence affecting their communities.
VeryDarkMan made the call while reacting to the disruption of the movement of 2027 presidential hopeful Peter Obi during his recent visit to the state.
In a video shared on his social media platforms, the social commentator said he was initially impressed by the large number of youths who turned out during the incident, noting that it demonstrated their capacity to mobilise when united behind a cause.
However, he said he became concerned after considering what could be achieved if the same energy were deployed towards demanding an end to killings and attacks across the state.
“If Benue youths can come out in numbers to chase somebody, tomorrow when bandits or terrorists attack, we know say una get squad wey sabi chase,” he said.
VeryDarkMan expressed disappointment that youths who have experienced years of insecurity, including attacks on farmers and killings, could be mobilised for political activities.
He also recalled protests that followed the Yelewata massacre, alleging that residents who took to the streets to demand an end to the killings were dispersed with tear gas.
According to him, the situation raises questions about why similar levels of mobilisation are not witnessed when communities come under attack or residents demand accountability from the government.
The social commentator further accused politicians of exploiting the frustrations of Benue youths for political gains while failing to adequately address the security challenges confronting the state.
He urged the youths to resist being used as instruments in political battles between rival camps, arguing that the controversy surrounding Obi’s visit should instead serve as a wake-up call.
VeryDarkMan said young people in the state needed to recognise the influence they could wield when they act collectively towards issues affecting their communities.
“I nearly cried when I watched that video. I was looking at it like, ‘ Is this my Benue people?” he said.
He called on the youths to redirect their collective strength towards demanding improved security, accountable governance and greater protection for communities across Benue State.
