Ossai Ovie Success, media aide to the Delta State Governor, has called on social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to publicly apologise to Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, following controversial remarks made by Otse about the cleric. The demand comes after VeryDarkMan’s online comments sparked backlash, prompting Ossai to issue a strong public statement urging accountability and respect for religious leaders. In his post, Ossai warned that disrespecting Pastor Adeboye could lead to “spiritual consequences,” emphasizing the sacred role the pastor plays in Nigeria’s spiritual landscape.
Ossai insisted that VeryDarkMan’s criticism was misplaced and unjustified, arguing that Pastor Adeboye remains committed to praying for the nation without aligning with any political faction. He stressed that the cleric is not involved in partisan politics and should not be held accountable for national decisions beyond his spiritual duties. “Pastor Adeboye is of God. He is not holding brief for any man or political camp. He is standing in the gap for the nation before God,” Ossai stated, reinforcing the belief that the pastor’s influence is rooted in faith, not politics.
The media aide expressed disappointment in VeryDarkMan, noting that the activist may be seeking attention by attacking spiritual figures. “He may think he is building clout with his followers by attacking spirituality and dragging a man of God. But there are lines you do not cross,” Ossai said. He used a traditional metaphor, stating, “You cannot be rude to an iroko tree and expect to live long,” to underscore the potential consequences of disrespecting respected figures in society and religion.
Ossai also highlighted that Pastor Adeboye has often been misunderstood when he chooses not to publicly support political positions or national debates. He pointed out that critics have unfairly targeted the cleric over time, without valid reason. “History is clear: Satan has used many people to insult Baba Adeboye for no just cause,” he said, framing the criticism as part of a broader spiritual challenge. He warned that insulting a “true servant of God” could carry serious spiritual repercussions, urging VeryDarkMan to retract his comments and apologise.
The call for an apology has drawn attention across social media and religious circles, with many Nigerians weighing in on the importance of respecting religious leaders. Ossai’s statement reflects a growing concern about the tone and content of online discourse, especially when it involves figures of spiritual authority. As the debate continues, the public will be watching to see whether VeryDarkMan responds to the call for accountability. The incident underscores the delicate balance between free speech and respect in Nigeria’s increasingly polarized digital space.
Leave a Comment