Security Group Defends AIG Jimoh Moshood, Condemns VDM's 'Media Trial', Warns Against Undermining National Security

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" by self-acclaimed human rights activist and social media influencer, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), against the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), 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 platforms to make serious allegations against the senior police officer without allowing due process and the legal system to determine the issues raised.

According to the group, AIG Jimoh Moshood has dedicated nearly three decades of distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force, earning promotions through professionalism, discipline, integrity, and exceptional performance.

"It is unfortunate that an officer with such an impeccable record has become the target of relentless social media attacks aimed at tarnishing both his reputation and the institution he represents.

"AIG Jimoh Moshood is not an accidental leader. His progression from the junior ranks to Force Public Relations Officer, Commissioner of Police, and now Assistant Inspector General of Police reflects years of dedication, competence, and exemplary service to the nation.

"His service record is open to public scrutiny. Throughout his career, he has consistently distinguished himself as one of the finest officers produced by the Nigeria Police Force," the statement said.

The coalition also highlighted Moshood's tenure as Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, describing it as one of the most proactive periods in modern policing within the state.

It noted that under his leadership, Lagos recorded intensified intelligence-led operations against criminal gangs, kidnappers, cultists, armed robbers, and other violent offenders.

"He was never a commissioner who remained behind a desk. He personally led several tactical operations, strengthened intelligence gathering, promoted community policing, enhanced public engagement, and ensured swift responses to security threats.

"His leadership significantly reduced crime rates across Lagos and restored public confidence in policing. His professionalism earned him respect within the police, among sister security agencies, and from international partners," the statement added.

CSANS maintained that while public officials are accountable and open to scrutiny, allegations of misconduct should be addressed through constitutionally established institutions rather than social media campaigns.

"If anyone believes there were infractions during AIG Moshood's tenure as Commissioner of Police in Lagos, Nigeria has competent courts, investigative bodies, and oversight institutions empowered to examine such claims.

"Social media is not a court of law. No individual, regardless of popularity, has the authority to act as judge, prosecutor, and executioner over Nigeria's security institutions," it stated.

The coalition further expressed concern over what it described as VDM's recurring confrontations with government institutions and security agencies.

"It is on public record that videos have emerged showing VDM confronting officials of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) while they were carrying out their lawful duties. Similar confrontations and verbal attacks against officials of the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and other agencies are also widely available in the public domain.

"This recurring hostility toward virtually every security institution raises legitimate concerns about the broader implications of such conduct on public confidence in law enforcement," the group said.

CSANS warned that sustained campaigns aimed at ridiculing and discrediting security institutions could embolden criminal elements and weaken citizens' trust in agencies responsible for maintaining law and order.

"No nation develops by consistently demonising its security architecture. Constructive criticism is a vital component of democracy, but deliberate attempts to incite public hostility against security agencies or senior officers without judicial determination are dangerous and counterproductive.

"We welcome VDM's advocacy against human rights violations and remain willing to collaborate with him on any genuine concerns he raises. However, we will not stand by while constructive criticism degenerates into campaigns capable of undermining our national security institutions. We shall resist every attempt to reduce Nigeria's security architecture to an object of ridicule and mockery," the coalition warned.

CSANS therefore called on VDM to immediately desist from what it described as inflammatory campaigns and media trials capable of undermining national security.

"It is time for Martins Otse to exercise restraint and allow due process to prevail. Freedom of expression comes with responsibility and must never be weaponised to destroy reputations or weaken public institutions," the statement added.

The coalition also urged relevant security and intelligence agencies to remain vigilant and, where legally necessary, investigate any activities that could threaten public order or national security.

"Our security agencies, particularly intelligence institutions, have a constitutional responsibility to safeguard Nigeria's democratic institutions and preserve public peace. Any investigation into individuals or groups must be conducted strictly in accordance with the law and with full respect for constitutional rights.

"A careful investigation may uncover possible sponsors or collaborators behind smear campaigns targeting security personnel and institutions, actions capable of undermining the collective efforts to safeguard the nation," the statement concluded.

CSANS 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 protect lives and property.

"National security is too important to become a casualty of social media sensationalism. Nigerians must strengthen, not weaken, the institutions charged with protecting the country," the coalition stated.