Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has once again stirred the controversy of Nigerian activism, this time he brings the fight straight to the doorstep of the FCT Minister in Abuja.

Earlier today, June 23, 2025, VDM showed up at the gate of the Minister’s office, not alone, but with a group of school children all dressed in their uniforms. But it wasn’t a regular school outing. Right there, in front of security officials and onlookers, VDM turned the space into a makeshift classroom, teaching the kids in broad daylight.

This wasn’t just about reading and writing. It was a protest calling attention to a crisis that has kept public primary schools shut for nearly three months. Teachers across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been on strike since March 24, 2025, insisting on the full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage promised to them. But with Area Council Chairmen dragging their feet, classrooms have stayed empty, and pupils have been left stranded at home.

In typical VDM style, the protest was loud.

The children chanted the alphabet with an interesting twist; throwing subtle shots at Nigeria’s leaders. From “S for Suegbe” to “T for Tinubu” and “W for Wike”. During the protest, VDM didn’t just stop at the theatrics. He issued a clear warning to the FCT authorities. They have seven days to find a solution and get the children back into classrooms. If they fail, he promised to mobilize an even larger crowd, bringing students from different parts of the FCT to the same spot for another round of protest.

Additionally, VDM hinted that if action isn’t taken soon, healthcare workers will be the next focus. Many of them are also demanding the ₦70,000 minimum wage but, like the teachers, have been ignored for months. On the government’s side, Mandate Secretary of FCT Area Councils, Bitrus Garki, confirmed that discussions are ongoing to resolve the crisis. He explained that the FCT administration has been supporting the Area Councils with infrastructure and negotiations but couldn’t say exactly when the issue would be resolved.

Popular Nigerian Activist VeryDarkMan stages a protest to end the ongoing strike on primary school teachers in Abuja.

It can be noted that the teachers have been on strike since the 24th of March, 2025, and no change or movement have been made to end this.

The activist however makes a decision to lead the protest ending up at the FCT minister Nyesom Wike’s office.

It can also be noted that the main reason of the strike is due to the failure to implement the new minimum wage of 70 thousand Naira.

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