Controversial social media commentator VeryDarkMan has stirred fresh political debate after publicly criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as a questionable re-election campaign strategy.
In a viral video making rounds online, the outspoken influencer questioned why an incumbent seeking a second term would rely on giveaways and influencer-backed movements instead of highlighting achievements recorded during his first four years in office.
“Campaign With Your Results, Not Rice”
In the widely shared clip, VeryDarkMan argued that performance in office should naturally earn public support without the need for material incentives or celebrity-driven endorsements.
He pointed to reported rice distribution efforts and organized support movements as examples, suggesting that governance outcomes — especially in areas like security and economic stability — should form the foundation of any re-election bid.
According to him, citizens should be eager to retain a leader based on visible progress rather than persuasion campaigns.
Influencers and Organized Support Groups Under Scrutiny
The social commentator also questioned the involvement of influencers and coordinated political movements, claiming such strategies may signal underlying voter dissatisfaction.
He referenced public figures allegedly participating in outreach campaigns, including market distributions and youth mobilization efforts, and asked whether such approaches reflect confidence in the administration’s track record.
His remarks have since triggered intense reactions across social media platforms.
Mixed Reactions Online
The video has divided public opinion:
- Supporters of the commentator say elected leaders should prioritize measurable results over campaign theatrics.
- Critics argue that community outreach and mobilization are standard political practices in democratic systems.
- Others believe the debate reflects growing public engagement ahead of future elections.
The Bigger Political Conversation
As discussions around future elections gradually build momentum, the comments highlight broader questions about campaign strategies, accountability, and voter expectations in Nigeria’s political space.
With social media increasingly shaping political discourse, public figures like VeryDarkMan continue to influence conversations around governance and leadership.
Whether the criticism will have any tangible political impact remains uncertain — but one thing is clear: the debate over performance versus persuasion is far from over.
“President Tinubu has been in power for 4 years and now campaigning for reelection. Instead of campaigning on the work you’ve done, you are using rice and hiring influencers to campaign for you. It is a sh@me. Make it make sense. People are supposed to be begging you to remain in… pic.twitter.com/gZl6Bnu38h
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) February 15, 2026

