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Nigerian social media critic VeryDarkMan (VDM) has publicly expressed disappointment in the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, following the circulation of an alleged WhatsApp conversation between the monarch and socialite King Mitchy.
The development comes amid an ongoing online feud between VDM and King Mitchy, which began after she criticised his school renovation project. Mitchy claimed she had renovated a school within six days and challenged the activist to provide her with N50 million to enable her renovate four more schools.
As the exchange intensified, Mitchy accused VDM of questioning the source of her wealth and making inappropriate allegations against her. She also revealed that the controversy had resulted in her losing her business page. To counter the criticisms and validate her credibility, Mitchy shared screenshots of an alleged chat with the Ooni of Ife, in which the monarch reportedly commended her social media activities and requested to speak with her.
“See all the great things you’re doing on social media. Keep up the good work indeed! Kindly advise when we can talk,” the Ooni was quoted as saying.
Reacting to the message, VDM expressed shock and disapproval, stating that it was ironic that he would bow in respect when meeting the Ooni, yet the monarch appeared to be showing deference to a socialite. He argued that such interaction emboldened Mitchy to show disregard for him and others.
“If I see the Ooni of Ife, I will bow down to greet him, whereas he is bowing down to Mitchy on WhatsApp. A whole Ooni of Ife, I am disappointed. She even referred to him as ‘even this king had to find my contact’. No wonder she can never regard me,” VDM said.
He further contrasted the conduct of the Ooni with that of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, whom he praised for upholding traditional dignity and royal standards.
The comments have triggered widespread debate on social media, with users divided over the expectations placed on traditional rulers in the digital age and the boundaries between royalty and social media personalities.
Despite his confrontational style, VDM has built a strong following due to his outspoken stance against alleged fraud and corruption. Over the past months, he has gained attention for calling out celebrities, influencers, pastors, and businesses over claims of dishonest practices. He has repeatedly vowed to expose influencers who promote questionable products and schemes, arguing that such actions lead to financial losses for unsuspecting fans.
The activist has also claimed responsibility for the disappearance of the controversial anonymous blog, Gistlover, boasting that he successfully shut it down. He maintains that his activism is guided by a sense of divine purpose and accountability.
VDM’s influence and popularity have earned him support from several celebrities. Actress Yvonne Jegede recently expressed pride in him after meeting at an event, describing him as a younger brother and commending his courage. During his detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), numerous public figures rallied behind him, demanding his release.
Veteran actress Rita Edochie led the calls, describing VDM as a rare voice in society who speaks boldly for the oppressed. Music star Davido also acknowledged the activist’s impact, stating that despite the controversies, it was encouraging to see the positive influence of his actions. Socialite Cubana Chief Priest, actresses Destiny Etiko and Angela Okorie, as well as several others, similarly voiced their support.
Reality TV star Phyna went as far as nominating VDM to contest for the presidency of the Youth Democratic Party (YDP), expressing confidence in his leadership potential and vision for a better Nigeria.
However, not everyone agrees with his methods. Singer and former reality TV star Vee Iye criticised VDM’s supporters, suggesting that blind loyalty to individual activists undermines collective responsibility. She argued that societal change requires broader civic engagement rather than reliance on singular voices.
As reactions continue to pour in, the controversy surrounding the Ooni of Ife, King Mitchy, and VeryDarkMan has once again highlighted the growing tension between traditional institutions and Nigeria’s fast-evolving social media culture.
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