A Chinese man identified as Ross has publicly voiced his support for Nigerian social media personality and activist, VeryDarkMan (VDM), following the latter’s arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Ross expressed anger over VDM’s arrest, describing him as a kind individual who once helped him recover funds lost in a scam involving a Tanzanian national.
“I heard my brother VeryDarkMan has been arrested by EFCC like all brothers. Ross is very angry because he’s a good person and it’s not just empty talking,” Ross said in the emotional clip.
Ross recounted that he had been scammed out of one million naira by a man named Peter, who sold him used shoes. Acting on advice from Nigerian friends, he reached out to VDM for help.
“I just messaged my problem to VDM to read it. And the next day, he made a video to expose it. Later, Ross got a little money back,” he explained.
Praising the activist’s selflessness, Ross noted that VDM assisted him without asking for any compensation. “He was willing to help a stranger, a Chinese, without any reward. So Ross says he’s a good person and it’s impossible to have done anything illegal,” he added.
Ross also used the platform to speak candidly about the state of Nigeria’s economy. He called on authorities to focus on meaningful reforms rather than silencing voices like VDM’s.
“You are a great country with land, resources and labour. You can definitely develop your country well. But look at the current situation. Your people are starving. Those who work don’t get a good payment. And those who do business don’t make a good profit,” he lamented.
The Chinese national criticised the arrest of VDM, implying that it stemmed from his bold commentary on national issues.
“I think you arrested VDM because he often speaks out on those public issues. You cannot solve the problem, so you choose to silence those who raise it. Isn’t that shameless?” Ross said.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to support the detained activist and advocate for free speech. “Please release VDM immediately. But I also want to tell VDM followers, please be patient and do not take extreme actions to make things worse. Wait for VDM’s release and the truth to come out before taking action.”
Ross’s video has since gone viral, attracting widespread attention and sparking further conversations around VDM’s arrest and the broader implications for civic activism in Nigeria.
