VDM Calls on Edo Govt to Intervene in Oghede Community, Shares His Experience and Observations

VDM Calls on Edo Govt to Intervene in Oghede Community, Shares His Experience and Observations

EdoToday reports that  Social commentator and activist, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VDM (Very Dark Man), has raised an urgent appeal to the Edo State Government following his visit to Oghede community, where he observed ongoing property demolitions allegedly carried out by the Nigerian Army.

In a video posted on his official platform, VDM documented scenes from the area, revealing that residential and incomplete structures, some of which have existed for over a decade, are currently being demolished by military personnel. The Army is said to be acting on claims that the affected properties were built on land belonging to the military.

VDM, however, questioned the timing and legality of the action, noting that some of the structures have stood for five, ten, and even twenty years without prior objection from the authorities.

“If the land has always belonged to the Army, why wait until now to act? Why weren’t these buildings stopped during construction?” he asked during his report.

Alleged Fulani Camp Raises Fresh Concerns

Beyond the demolitions, VDM also visited a nearby area where he discovered a settlement allegedly occupied by Fulani herdsmen. The location, which is a short distance from the demolition site, appears to be a makeshift camp with multiple huts and active occupants.

According to the video, some Fulani men at the site confirmed to VDM that they were residing there and claimed they had been given permission to occupy the land. However, community members insist no such permission was ever granted, raising questions about who authorized their presence.

One resident who spoke anonymously alleged that the camp is considered a “no-go area” by locals, citing previous security concerns. He further claimed that arms and ammunition were once recovered from the area during a joint operation by the state’s vigilante group and the police.

“We have seen dangerous things happen there before. Our local security team and the police once recovered weapons from that same Fulani camp,” the resident said. “Now they are destroying our homes while that camp remains untouched.”

Community Fears and Growing Tensions

The developments have left many in Oghede worried about their safety and the future of their community. Several residents believe the demolitions may be part of a larger plan to forcefully take over the land for settlement purposes, especially in light of recent attacks in states like Benue, where similar patterns have been observed.

VDM called on the Edo State Government to immediately investigate the matter and provide clarity to both residents and the general public.

“It is important for the government to step in now and address this issue transparently. If nothing is done, people may lose their land, their homes, and eventually their lives,” VDM warned.

No Official Response Yet

As of the time of this report, there has been no official statement from the Nigerian Army, nor has the Edo State Government made any public comments regarding the demolitions or the alleged Fulani camp.

Residents continue to call for answers, demanding that the authorities take swift and decisive action to prevent further escalation.

This report will be updated as new information becomes available.