In the intricate world of social media and celebrity culture, where public figures often wield significant influence, the line between activism and personal vendetta can sometimes blur. This tension recently came to the forefront in a public exchange between veteran Nigerian rapper Ruggedman and social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM). The conversation highlights a deeper conflict between holding powerful figures accountable and navigating the often contentious relationships within the celebrity ecosystem.
Ruggedman, known for his outspoken nature and advocacy on social issues, expressed his initial admiration for VeryDarkMan, particularly during the latter’s early efforts with the NAFDAC initiative. However, Ruggedman admitted that his support waned when VeryDarkMan began taking a more personal approach in his criticism, especially towards celebrities like Iyabo Ojo.
“I used to like VDM when he started the NAFDAC thing, but I stopped when he started going personal with people and celebs like Iyabo,” Ruggedman remarked, revealing his discomfort with the shift in focus.
VeryDarkMan, never one to shy away from confrontation, responded with characteristic bluntness, underscoring his commitment to his mission. For him, the stakes are too high to be concerned with gaining or losing the approval of celebrities.
“Ruggedman, your like is the least thing I’ll ever want,” VeryDarkMan retorted. “You’ve seen me go for people that defraud others, people like Ashmushy and many others because they do not have the platform. You’ve seen me recover SirBalo’s 25 million, you’ve seen me stand for the people, and your focus is the likes of Iyabo?”
VeryDarkMan’s response highlights a critical divide between his objectives and the expectations of some of his critics. His focus, as he articulates, is on fighting for justice, particularly for those who lack the platform or power to defend themselves. For him, the work is not about targeting individuals arbitrarily but about holding those who misuse their influence accountable, regardless of their status.
“I do not like many of these celebs because the moment you do, they’ll want you to join their bad ways,” he continued, further distancing himself from the celebrity culture that often shields public figures from scrutiny. “I saw AY last week where I was lodging, and he was waiting for me to come greet him since he is a celeb, I passed.”
VeryDarkMan’s mission is, in his words, “simple—help and protect the vulnerable.” He makes it clear that his actions are not driven by a desire for popularity or acceptance within the celebrity world. Instead, they are fueled by a sense of duty to those who are often ignored or silenced. This stance, while noble, has inevitably put him at odds with some within the industry who may feel personally attacked by his methods.
“Jokes aside, has VDM ever gone for anyone that hasn’t done wrong? This man literally risks his life for his people and does what 99% of celebs won’t do,” VeryDarkMan concluded, defending his approach and the integrity of his mission.
This exchange between Ruggedman and VeryDarkMan serves as a microcosm of a larger conversation about the role of public figures in society. It raises important questions about accountability, the responsibilities of those with influence, and the fine line between constructive criticism and personal attack. In a world where celebrities often wield significant power, activists like VeryDarkMan challenge the status quo, reminding us that popularity should never come at the expense of justice and integrity.
While opinions may differ on his approach, VeryDarkMan’s unwavering commitment to his cause underscores the complexities of navigating activism in a space dominated by celebrity culture. Whether one agrees with his methods or not, there is no denying the impact of his work and the important conversations it continues to spark.