In a bold and controversial statement that has sparked intense debate across Nigeria's social media landscape, outspoken activist and social commentator, VeryDarkMan (VDM), has openly voiced support for embattled Nigerian artist Naira Marley, urging his loyal fanbase, known as “Marlians”, to remain steadfast and stand with their president.
VDM, known for his fearless commentary on trending issues, took to social media to declare that he would never have become who he is today if he had simply followed the crowd. “I will not be VeryDarkMan today if I followed the crowd,” he wrote. This statement, seen as a direct response to the ongoing criticism and cancel culture facing Naira Marley, is being interpreted by many as a clear stance in defense of the singer, who has remained under public scrutiny following several controversies.
CONTROVERSY REIGNITES A DIVIDED INTERNET
Naira Marley has remained a polarizing figure in Nigerian pop culture — admired by his fans for his raw authenticity and musical style, yet frequently criticized for some of his public behaviors, affiliations, and past statements. Recent controversies have reignited debates about his influence on Nigerian youth and his place in the music industry.
VDM’s call to “stand with their president” has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of the activist see his stance as consistent with his brand of independent thinking and refusal to bow to public pressure, while critics accuse him of being tone-deaf or enabling problematic behavior.
SOCIAL MEDIA ON FIRE: PRAISE AND BACKLASH
Shortly after the post, Twitter (X) and Instagram timelines exploded with hashtags like #VDM, #NairaMarley, #Marlians, and #StandWithYourPresident trending nationwide. Thousands of Nigerians jumped into the fray with impassioned opinions.
One user tweeted,
> “VDM said what he said! Don’t follow the noise; seek the truth. The same crowd you please today will cancel you tomorrow.”
While another fired back,
> “VeryDarkMan defending Marley just shows some influencers would rather die on a hill of controversy than admit when someone is wrong.”
MARLIAN MUSIC YET TO RESPOND
At the time of this report, neither Naira Marley nor his record label Marlian Music has issued an official response to VDM’s statement. However, insiders suggest that VDM’s remarks may signal a subtle PR realignment intended to soften public opinion toward the artist.
Industry analysts note that this isn’t the first time VDM has inserted himself into contentious cultural narratives. From confronting police brutality to calling out celebrities, his profile has grown as a voice of the streets, and sometimes, a thorn in the side of the mainstream.
THE CULTURE WAR: CELEBRITY WORSHIP OR CRITICAL THINKING?
This incident also reopens the ongoing discourse around celebrity loyalty and critical social engagement in Nigeria. With fanbases becoming increasingly tribal and stars wielding massive influence over their followers, VDM’s appeal to loyalty over collective judgment raises deeper questions about the nature of influence, accountability, and freedom of thought.
In his words:
> “If I followed the mob, I wouldn’t be who I am. That’s what made me different. That’s why you listen to me.”
FINAL THOUGHTS
Whether one agrees with VDM’s stance or not, the episode highlights a key tension in Nigerian pop culture: the push and pull between individuality and collective morality. As Nigeria’s youth continue to shape digital narratives, voices like VDM’s will remain central, sometimes controversial, sometimes inspiring, but never ignored.
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