Nigerian court dismisses police impersonation case

A Nigerian court has dismissed a criminal impersonation case against social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, citing insufficient evidence. The decision, announced by Otse on August 4, 2026, ends a legal battle that began in 2024 after he appeared in a video wearing an outfit police alleged was a uniform.

In a video statement, Otse said he was discharged because prosecutors failed to prove he impersonated an officer or unlawfully wore a police uniform. He argued the case lacked merit, stating he never claimed to be a serving police officer. Otse explained that his outfit was a black designer garment purchased from a roadside vendor and was not an official uniform. He also addressed his past reference to being a "CSP," clarifying it meant "Chief Social Media Person," and described his use of the term "online police" as symbolic and humorous. He expressed gratitude to the justice system and his legal team for the outcome.

Separately, the Nigeria Police Force confirmed it is investigating Assistant Inspector-General of Police Moshood Jimoh over separate allegations raised by Otse. In a statement issued on August 4, police spokesperson Ani Iniedu...