NAFDAC has alleged that social media influencer VeryDarkMan (VDM) is colluding with fake drug merchants in Onitsha to mislead the public and obstruct regulatory efforts. The agency warns that this may breach cybercrime laws.
- VDM appeared in viral videos supporting protesting traders in Onitsha.
- Traders accused NAFDAC of extortion, claiming they were forced to pay N500k–N700k to reopen shops.
- NAFDAC insists the market reopened on March 9 with over 3,500 shops back in operation.
- Shops yet to reopen reportedly deal in banned narcotics.
- DG Mojisola Adeyeye says VDM’s actions may incite public disobedience and compromise enforcement.
This clash between digital activism and regulatory enforcement spotlights a rising tension: public influencers versus public institutions. While traders’ frustrations are real, NAFDAC’s concern over misinformation is just as valid. The weaponisation of social media narratives around sensitive operations like drug enforcement is becoming a growing governance dilemma.
As investigations unfold, Nigerians are urged to seek clarity from verified sources. NAFDAC has alerted security agencies, while law enforcement will determine if VDM's video content breaks any laws under the Cybercrime Act.
