Social critic Martins Vincent Otse, known widely as VeryDarkMan, has received a traditional title from Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo, during a palace ceremony in Iwo, Osun State, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
The monarch, who is also the Paramount Ruler of Iwoland, conferred on him the title “Atayese One of Nigeria, Orisha Nla.” VDM wore a colorful Aso Oke outfit for the event as palace chiefs and members of his Ratel movement looked on.
Videos from the visit showed VDM prostrating fully before the Oluwo as the monarch entered the palace. The gesture follows Yoruba tradition and is reserved as a sign of respect for elders and rulers. The Oluwo received him warmly and interacted with him in front of onlookers who recorded the moment.
VDM’s supporters and critics reacted differently on social media. Some praised his rise and influence. One fan wrote that VDM does what many established celebrities avoid doing. He wrote: Hate on him, but I know this man is doing what our so-called celebrities like Davido can’t do. Another fan questioned the reasons behind the honor and wrote, “Which deal Verydarkman get with the Oba of Iwo?”
A few users linked the visit to political ambition. One commenter said the visit looked like the start of a campaign. Another joked about the Oluwo lending his support to VDM for a future project.
Other reactions took a lighter tone. Several users joked about charms and traditional rites, warning VDM not to let the honor affect him. One person wrote, “Trust no one,” while another urged him to stay grounded despite the recognition.
The visit adds to a string of recent headlines involving VDM. He recently defended former Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila against a ₦400 million bribery allegation. He also mocked comedian Freedom Atsepoyi, known as Mr Jollof, after a court ordered VDM to pay ₦35 million in a defamation case involving Mr Jollof’s wife and the Koko Butterfly Hotel.
The palace has not released further details about the meeting or its purpose.
