CSANS Denounces Social Media Attacks on Senior Police Officials
The Coalition for Security Awareness and National Stability (CSANS), a prominent security advocacy organization, has vehemently criticized what it describes as an ongoing campaign of defamation and media trial led by self-proclaimed human rights activist and social media influencer Martins Otse, also known as Very Dark Man (VDM), against AIG Jimoh Moshood, Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 2.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Ibrahim Musa, the group condemned the persistent attacks on senior police personnel as reckless and malicious, warning that such actions could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions.
CSANS expressed deep concern regarding VDM’s misuse of social media influence to circumvent due process, making serious allegations against highly respected members of the police force without justification.
The coalition highlighted AIG Moshood’s nearly three decades of dedicated service to Nigeria, emphasizing his remarkable professionalism, integrity, and ascent through the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force based solely on merit and exceptional performance.
It noted the unfortunate situation where a police officer with such a commendable record is subjected to relentless social media attacks designed to tarnish his reputation and weaken the institution he represents.
Reflecting on his impressive career, CSANS pointed out that AIG Moshood is no accidental leader; his journey from a junior position to roles including Armed Forces Public Relations Officer and Police Commissioner underscores years of discipline and outstanding service to the nation. The coalition underscored that his record speaks for itself, reinforcing that throughout his career, he has been recognized as one of the finest officers produced by the Nigeria Police Force.
Furthermore, the coalition recalled Mr. Moshood’s impactful tenure as Lagos State Police Commissioner, characterizing it as a highly active period marked by intensified intelligence operations targeting criminal organizations, cults, kidnappers, armed robbers, and other violent offenders.
Under his leadership, Lagos saw a significant reduction in crime rates and a restoration of public trust in law enforcement. The coalition noted that AIG Moshood was an hands-on commissioner, leading tactical operations, enhancing intelligence gathering, promoting neighborhood policing, and quickly addressing security threats.
CSANS argued that while government offices should be scrutinized, allegations of misconduct should be investigated through proper legal channels, rather than through social media campaigns that risk eroding public trust. The statement emphasized that accusations should be dealt with in competent courts and investigative bodies that possess the authority to adjudicate such matters.
The coalition also expressed concern over VDM’s pattern of conflict with government and security agencies, warning that ongoing efforts to ridicule and discredit these institutions may embolden criminal elements and diminish public confidence in the forces tasked with maintaining law and order. They stressed that no nation prospers by continually demonizing its security framework.
While CSANS welcomed VDM’s campaign against genuine human rights violations, it urged him to remain focused on constructive critique rather than fostering public hostility towards security agencies. The group called on VDM to cease what it termed media trials and inflammatory rhetoric that could pose a threat to national security.
In addition, CSANS encouraged relevant security and intelligence agencies to stay vigilant and appropriately investigate any activities that may jeopardize public order or national security. The coalition reaffirmed the necessity of upholding constitutional rights during any inquiries, emphasizing that thorough investigations could reveal potential sponsors or collaborators behind smear campaigns against security personnel.
In closing, the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to supporting AIG Moshood and urged the Nigerian populace to bolster the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies tasked with ensuring the country’s safety. The statement concluded with an urgent reminder that national security is too crucial to fall prey to social media sensationalism, reinforcing the need to strengthen, rather than weaken, the institutions safeguarding lives and property.
