Security group backs AIG Moshood, faults VDM’s media campaign.

The Coalition for Security Awareness and National Stability (CSANS), a leading security advocacy organisation, has condemned what it described as a sustained campaign of defamation and media trial allegedly being carried out by self-acclaimed human rights activist and social media influencer, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), against the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Jimoh Moshood.

In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Ibrahim Musa, the coalition described the repeated attacks on the senior police officer as reckless, malicious and capable of eroding public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions.
CSANS expressed concern that VDM had continued to use his social media influence to make serious allegations against a respected police officer without allowing the due process of law to take its course.
According to the group, AIG Moshood has devoted nearly three decades to the service of Nigeria, demonstrating professionalism, integrity, dedication and sacrifice while rising through the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force based on merit and outstanding performance.
The coalition said it was regrettable that an officer with what it described as an impeccable service record had become the target of relentless social media attacks intended to damage both his reputation and the institution he represents.
It noted that Moshood’s progression from the junior ranks to serving as Force Public Relations Officer, Commissioner of Police and now Assistant Inspector General reflected years of discipline, competence and exceptional service. The group added that his professional record remains open to public scrutiny and described him as one of the finest officers produced by the Nigeria Police Force.
CSANS also highlighted Moshood’s tenure as Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, describing it as one of the state’s most proactive policing periods. It said his leadership saw intensified intelligence-led operations against criminal gangs, kidnappers, armed robbers, cultists and other violent offenders.
According to the coalition, Moshood was actively involved in tactical operations, strengthened intelligence gathering, promoted neighbourhood policing, enhanced community engagement and ensured rapid responses to security threats. It added that these efforts significantly reduced crime rates, restored public confidence in policing and earned him respect within the police, other security agencies and international partners.
The group maintained that while public officials should be open to scrutiny, allegations of misconduct must be addressed through constitutionally recognised institutions rather than social media campaigns.
It argued that anyone with allegations concerning Moshood’s tenure as Commissioner of Police in Lagos should approach the courts, investigative bodies or oversight institutions empowered to determine such matters, stressing that social media is not a court of law.
CSANS further expressed concern over what it described as VDM’s recurring confrontations with government institutions and security agencies. It cited videos allegedly showing him confronting officials of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) while carrying out their duties, as well as similar encounters involving the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other agencies.
According to the coalition, this recurring hostility towards security institutions raises legitimate concerns about its broader implications for public confidence in law enforcement.
The group warned that sustained campaigns aimed at ridiculing and discrediting security agencies could embolden criminal elements and weaken citizens’ trust in institutions responsible for maintaining law and order.
While acknowledging VDM’s advocacy against human rights violations, CSANS said it was willing to work with him on genuine concerns but would oppose any actions that depart from constructive and objective criticism.
The coalition called on VDM to immediately stop what it described as media trials and inflammatory campaigns capable of undermining national security. It stressed that freedom of expression comes with responsibilities and should not be used to damage reputations or weaken public institutions.
CSANS also urged security and intelligence agencies to remain vigilant and, where legally justified, investigate any activities that may threaten public order or national security. It added that such investigations must be conducted strictly within the law and with full respect for constitutional rights, noting that they could help identify any sponsors or collaborators behind alleged smear campaigns targeting security personnel.
The coalition reaffirmed its confidence in AIG Jimoh Moshood’s professionalism and called on Nigerians to continue supporting the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in their efforts to safeguard lives and property.
It concluded by stating that Nigeria’s security institutions should be strengthened rather than weakened, warning that national security must not become a casualty of social media sensationalism.