On May 6, 2025, the streets of Port Harcourt witnessed a large-scale protest as youths gathered along Aba Road to demand the release of social media activist Martin Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan. The activist’s recent arrest on charges of cyberbullying and defamation sparked outrage among young Nigerians, leading to spontaneous demonstrations across the city.
While the protest showcased the youth’s commitment to defending online freedoms, it also raised questions about their silence on a more pressing local political crisis. Just weeks earlier, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the state House of Assembly.
Citing political instability and concerns over pipeline vandalism, the president appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator, effectively sidelining the state’s elected leadership for six months.
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Despite the gravity of the situation, the youth who were quick to mobilize for a social media activist remained notably quiet about the sudden removal of their governor and the suspension of democratic processes in their state. This contrast highlights a growing divide in civic engagement, where issues related to social justice and personal liberties appear to resonate more deeply than concerns about local governance and political accountability.
Critics argue that this selective activism might reflect a disconnect between political consciousness and the realities of governance. Some local leaders have expressed disappointment that the same energy was not channeled into protesting the federal government’s controversial intervention in Rivers State politics.
They worry that overlooking such significant political changes could set a dangerous precedent, where democratic disruptions go unchallenged while social issues take center stage. In a time when civic engagement is crucial, the youth’s selective activism may inadvertently weaken the democratic fabric of Rivers State.
As debates continue, one question lingers, Are young people more inclined to fight for online freedom than to defend democratic governance in their own communities? The future of civic activism in Rivers State may well depend on how youths balance their passion for social justice with their responsibility to uphold democratic principles.
As the political situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the youth will broaden their focus to include both digital rights and the preservation of local democracy.
