The President of the Arewa Youths, Yerima Shettima, has issued a stern warning to social media activist VeryDarkMan over the ongoing protests in Abuja, urging him to relocate the demonstrations to Edo State.
The warning was contained in a viral video that surfaced online amid growing attention surrounding VeryDarkMan’s campaign against insecurity and bad governance.
In the video, Shettima accused the activist of previously making remarks he considered offensive to Northerners and insisted that Northern Nigeria should not become the centre of his protests.
“Before I come back to Abuja, VeryDarkMan, you should relocate your protest to Edo State. I am not in Abuja. VeryDarkMan, this message is for you and your sponsors. Relocate your protest to Edo State before I come back to Abuja,” he said.
The Arewa youth leader argued that security agencies had recently recorded successes in the fight against insecurity and should not be distracted by demonstrations capable of escalating tensions.
He maintained that Northern youths were prepared to defend their region and would resist any action they believed could destabilise the North.
“We are not scared of you. Let me tell you, VeryDarkMan, you and whoever is supporting you, we the Northern Nigerians are ready. We are ready to protect the North,” Shettima stated.
“There is insecurity in Edo State, so go there and lead your protest. Don’t start that in Abuja. This is a warning to you.”
The development comes shortly after VeryDarkMan returned to Nigeria from China and launched protests in Abuja, demanding stronger action against kidnappers and bandits.
The activist has also been vocal about the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, repeatedly calling on security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and ensure the victims are returned safely.
His demonstrations, including a recent visit to a Nigerian Air Force facility in Abuja, have generated widespread reactions across the country.
While some Nigerians have praised him for using his platform to demand accountability and draw attention to the worsening security situation, others have criticised his methods and warned against actions that could inflame tensions.
The remarks by the Arewa Youth leader have further divided public opinion, with supporters and critics of both figures taking to social media to express their views.
As of the time of filing this report, VeryDarkMan had not publicly responded to Yerima Shettima’s warning.
The unfolding exchange highlights the growing national debate over insecurity, civic activism and the role of public protests in demanding action from authorities.
The Arewa Youth President has cautioned VeryDarkMan against organising anti Tinubu protests in Northern Nigeria, insisting that any planned demonstrations should be moved outside the region. pic.twitter.com/JiAk5ROLqJ
— NaijaWide Media (@Naijawide01) June 11, 2026
