By Ghazali Ibrahim
Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been conferred with the traditional chieftaincy title of Atayese of Yorubaland by the Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu I.
The title was bestowed on Wednesday during VeryDarkMan’s visit to the ancient Iwo Palace in Osun State alongside members of the Ratels Movement.
Videos circulating on social media showed the activist arriving at the palace to a warm reception from the monarch, palace chiefs, residents, and supporters who gathered to witness the ceremony.
In keeping with Yoruba tradition, VeryDarkMan prostrated before the Oluwo as a mark of respect before exchanging greetings with the monarch.
During the ceremony, Oba Akanbi dressed the activist in traditional Yoruba attire before formally conferring on him the title of Atayese of Yorubaland.
The conferment was greeted with cheers from guests and supporters, while videos of the event quickly went viral across social media, attracting congratulatory messages and reactions from Nigerians.
VeryDarkMan, known for his outspoken commentary on social and public interest issues, has built a large following through his advocacy and activism.
The chieftaincy honour has since become one of the most talked-about topics online, with many discussing the significance of the title and the recognition accorded to the activist by the Iwo monarch.
