Coalition demands arrest, prosecution of VDM over alleged cyber-stalking, defamation

Petition Against Alleged Cyber-Stalking

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity, and Justice has formally petitioned the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 2, Onikan, Jimoh Moshood. The group is demanding the immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution of social media personality Martins Otse, widely known as VDM, over allegations of cyber-stalking, criminal defamation, and incitement.

In a petition dated July 21, 2026, the coalition alleged that Otse utilized his social media platforms to launch "continuous, malicious and coordinated cyber-attacks" against the AIG and the statutory authority of his office. The group maintains that these actions represent a serious breach of legal standards governing digital conduct in Nigeria.

Allegations of Malicious Smear Campaign

The petition, signed by the coalition's National Coordinator and Convener, Comrade James Okoronkwo, alleged that Otse has disseminated baseless allegations designed to incite public hostility against the high-ranking police officer. The group argued that these actions transcend typical social media discourse and constitute infractions under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015.

Over recent weeks, VDM has utilised his extensive digital platforms to launch a series of unprovoked, fabricated, and highly defamatory attacks aimed at undermining the integrity of your person and the statutory authority of your office.

— Comrade James Okoronkwo, National Coordinator and Convener, Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity, and Justice

According to the coalition, existing media rebuttals have proven insufficient to deter what they described as "chronic cyber-anarchists." They insisted that the alleged conduct likely constitutes a breach of public peace, requiring a firm legal response from the authorities.

Demands for Forensic Investigation and Prosecution

The coalition has specifically requested the apprehension of Martins Otse by relevant tactical units under the command of the AIG or the National Cybercrime Centre of the Nigeria Police Force. Beyond the arrest, the group is calling for a comprehensive forensic investigation into Otse’s digital activities to identify potential enablers and sponsors of the alleged smear campaign.

Furthermore, the group demanded the prompt arraignment of the suspect before a court of competent jurisdiction. They argued that such judicial action is necessary to serve as a deterrent to others who might use digital platforms to disparage law enforcement leadership and institutions.

A threat to the integrity of a high-ranking officer of the Nigeria Police Force is a threat to national security.

— Comrade James Okoronkwo, National Coordinator and Convener, Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity, and Justice

The coalition concluded by urging the police to deploy the full weight of the law without delay. The group expressed its readiness to provide continued media support and civil society solidarity throughout the duration of the requested legal proceedings.