Let us pause here and consider the logic behind this outrage. A citizen walks into a bank to make a complaint, a right guaranteed by his status as a customer. He is attended to and then exits the premises. Sometime after that, he is arrested by officers of the Nigeria Police Force. Yet somehow, without evidence or an official statement linking the two events, the bank becomes the villain in the eyes of the public. If that is not a textbook example of scapegoating, what is?

In the age of social media, it has become far too easy for misinformation to spread like wildfire, and in the process, facts are trampled, reputations are dragged, and innocent entities are often scapegoated. The recent arrest of popular Nigerian social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), is a clear case study of this disturbing trend.

Since the news of his arrest broke, many Nigerians on social media have been quick to point fingers, and unfortunately, one of the first institutions to fall under the weight of public outrage was Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank). The basis of this backlash? VDM had earlier visited one of the bank’s branches in Abuja to lodge a complaint regarding alleged unauthorized transactions from his mother’s bank account.

Let us pause here and consider the logic behind this outrage. A citizen walks into a bank to make a complaint, a right guaranteed by his status as a customer. He is attended to and then exits the premises. Sometime after that, he is arrested by officers of the Nigeria Police Force. Yet somehow, without evidence or an official statement linking the two events, the bank becomes the villain in the eyes of the public. If that is not a textbook example of scapegoating, what is?

Thankfully, in this case, we are not operating in an information vacuum. VDM’s own legal representatives, Barrister Deji Adeyanju, a well-known human rights lawyer, have publicly clarified the sequence of events as he explicitly stated that his client was not arrested inside or outside any GTBank branch. According to Adeyanju, the arrest occurred in Area 3, a different part of Abuja, hours after the bank visit.

Furthermore, the legal team later discovered that VDM was being detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), not GTBank, not private security operatives, and certainly not on bank premises. These are not speculations; they are statements made by legal professionals actively involved in the case.

So, what exactly did GTBank do wrong? Listen to a customer’s complaint? Allow a citizen to use their platform to seek help over suspected fraud on an account? Since when did being present at a location prior to an arrest translate to complicity?

What we are seeing here is a classic case of narrative manipulation, the kind that thrives in the absence of critical thinking and journalistic rigor. Because VDM is a public figure and his arrest was unexpected, people wanted an explanation, and they wanted it fast. Social media users, in a rush to identify the “culprit,” made GTBank an easy target simply because it was part of the last known chain of events. But this kind of deductive shortcut is both intellectually lazy and ethically dangerous.

Institutions like GTBank operate under strict regulatory frameworks. Any collaboration with law enforcement, especially involving the arrest or detention of an individual, would require formal procedures, not whispers in corridors or nods from bank managers. There is absolutely no evidence to suggest that any such procedures were invoked. As far as the facts go, GTBank was merely a stop on VDM’s personal journey that day, not a conspirator in his arrest.

This issue goes far beyond one bank and one influencer. It speaks to a broader societal challenge in Nigeria and, indeed, across the world: our collective tendency to jump to conclusions, weaponize assumptions, and lash out at convenient targets. This behavior is amplified by not a few social media buffs who consume information in fragments, and who see outrage as more valuable than truth.

The speed at which GTBank was dragged into this controversy should alarm anyone who values fairness and due process. In a society already struggling with misinformation, disinformation, and a growing distrust of institutions, we must be more careful with how we frame our narratives. It is neither responsible nor just to destroy reputations based on conjecture.

It is common to see Nigerian institutions, banks, telecoms, hospitals, even public offices, come under attack when something goes wrong. Some of this criticism is well-deserved, no doubt. Many institutions need to do more to earn public trust. But when an entity is wrongfully accused or made to suffer reputational damage due to events beyond its control, the society must rise to its defense, not just for the institution’s sake, but for the sake of justice and accountability.

GTBank has spent decades building its brand as one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions. Like any large organization, it has had its fair share of criticism, but this particular situation, the arrest of a customer who visited one of its branches, is not its fault, and should not be made to seem like it is.

To allow this misinformation to fester unchallenged is to participate in the erosion of corporate integrity. Tomorrow, it could be another bank, another school, another public institution, all falsely accused because they happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

There are more important questions that deserve the public’s attention: Why was VDM arrested? What charges, if any, have been formally filed against him? Was due process followed in his arrest and detention? What role is the EFCC playing, and how transparent has it been in its handling of this matter?

These are the real issues that demand scrutiny. Redirecting anger toward an uninvolved party not only derails the conversation but also lets the real actors off the hook. Exonerating GTBank in this context is not a recourse to shield institutions from criticism, rather, it is an act of advocating for fairness, truth, and focus.

It is said that in times of confusion, facts are our best compass. That compass is clearly pointing in the direction of GTBank’s innocence in the arrest of VeryDarkMan. The bank neither instigated, facilitated, nor benefited from the event. The arrest was a state action, carried out in a different location, and connected, according to legal sources, to entirely different matters.

Let us not make GTBank the scapegoat for an incident in which it played no role. Let us be mature enough to separate presence from participation, and coincidence from conspiracy.

Social media may thrive on heat, but newspapers, and history, must favor light. The truth is simple and unembellished: GTBank did not arrest VeryDarkMan. And that should be the end of it.

BY

BOLAJI AFOLABI

Established in 1994 by the military administration of late General Sani Abacha, the Abuja Investments Company Limited, (AICL) is positioned as a government-owned investment enterprise charged with the responsibility to drive economic development in the federal capital territory. Its primary goal is to promote strategic investment and boost realistic economic growth of the FCT through different platforms and various approaches. Key functions of the AICL include Business Development; Investment and Development; Public-Private Partnership; Facility Management; and Infrastructure Development. The AICL has several subsidiaries and associates including Abuja Property Development Company, (APDC); Abuja Markets Management Limited, (AMML); Abuja Urban Mass Transport Company, (AUMTCO); Abuja Technology Village Free Zone; Abuja Film Village International Limited; PowerNoth/AICL Equipment Leasing Company. Others include Aso Savings and Loans PLC; Abuja Power Company Limited; Abuja Leasing Company; and Abuja Downtown Mall.

From 1994 till the exit of the military from national governance in 1999, the AICL recorded few achievements. During this period, the AUMTCO, and Aso Savings and Loans were established. With the dawn of democratic government in 1999, it was expected that the FCT, being an emerging federal capital will benefit hugely from the activities of the AICL. However, nothing much was achieved between 1999 and 2003. Somehow, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, who administered the FCT from July 2003 to July 2007, was able to change the tide. Under his watch, the AICL came alive, recorded some measure of visibility and attracted positive public perception. Sadly, the AICL took a downward slide thereafter. None of the past ministers; Aliyu Modibbo Umar, Adamu Aliero, Bala Mohammed, and Muhammed Musa Bello provided the necessary political will and support for the AICL to maximally attain full potential. Indeed, it got worse between 2015 and May 2023 that many residents forgot that the company was still existing.

Many critical stakeholders were worried about the depth of neglect, static state, and institutional damage that the AICL was subjected to. Patterned after similar agencies in some developing nations, where measurable strides are achieved, the reverse happened with the AICL, that it became recurring causes of worries, and regrets to many people. Alhaji Aminu Mohammed, a former staff member of FCTA said, “it was shameful that the company remained largely dormant for many years.” Corroborating, Mr. Gilbert Gyang, an Abuja based investment expert declared, “the AICL, especially during the last administration was arguably comatose. It merely existed on paper, there was no visible investment initiative geared towards economic growth in the federal capital.” For Ms. Winifred Anosike, former banker, and development consultant, “it’s painful that the company was practically inactive for years. It was not only affecting economic growth in Abuja but impacted negatively on people and firms with result-driven initiatives who desired to contribute actively to the development of the capital city.”

With the emergence and subsequent inauguration of President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023, key players in the investment sector were hopeful that, the AICL may breathe again. Many hinged their thoughts on Tinubu’s background and experiences in accounting, financing, investment, governance, and leadership. Though with caveats; the choice of who minister’s FCT will be pivotal. Convinced that the AICL should be the “engine room” of economic growth and development of the capital city, many hoped that Tinubu will deploy the appropriate person to oversee the strategic ministry. Some stakeholders concluded that a wrong choice may consign the AICL into the “wilderness of inactivity” and likely extinction. Somehow, key players in the investment sector, at different fora and platforms were upbeat that Tinubu will pick the right person, who they hope will lead the way towards enabling the AICL to get back its mojo.

In August 2023, the deployment of Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike as the Minister of the FCT; the 8th since Nigeria’s return to democratic government elicited public endorsement. Tinubu’s choice was largely celebrated by many stakeholders, as it renewed optimism about the prospects of AICL reviving its activities. Cognisant of Wike’s legendary achievements, as Rivers state Governor where he embarked on massive infrastructure development and more, turning the “Treasure Base” to the central investment hub in the South South zone, and emerging as second to Lagos state, many were confident that “light will come” to the AICL. A similar spate of enthusiasm and expectations was prevalent in and around the AICL. Many of the staff members also shared the positions.

The atmosphere at the Garki District offices of AICL on April 7, 2024 was ecstatic when news filtered in that Wike had appointed Dr. Maureen Tamuno as the Group Managing Director. A few hours later, it turned to frenzy after goggle checks were done by some staff members to have glimpses of her profile. Impressed, and satisfied with her multi-disciplinary academic background, and multi-faceted careers, her appointment was described as well-thought, and well-deserving. The unanimity of opinion was that, being a round peg in a round hole, the AICL will leverage on her far-reaching experiences and exposures as a former lawmaker, seasoned diplomat, public administrator, and boardroom strategist.

Aware and ready for the challenges ahead, many staff members were visibly excited when Tamuno assumed office the following day. Thus emerging as the first female chief executive of the AICL, since its 30 years of existence. Described as an accomplished technocrat with identifiable achievements in leadership, strategy, diplomacy, administration, and consulting, Tamuno, in her maiden speech confirmed the postulations of staff members. She emphasized her, “commitment to open-door policy to all staff, urging everyone to operate at the highest standard of transparency, confidentiality, accountability, and ethical business practices.” Continuing, she assured staff members that her, “strategic approach and consumer-centric philosophy are expected to propel the AICL to new heights of success.”

From reports, challenged by the enormity of the task ahead, conscious of the hugely untapped potential of the AICL, buoyed by the political support of Wike, and encouraged by the passion of the staff members, Tamuno literally hit the ground running. As a globally-recognized business development, management, and investment professional, she approached her assignment with iron-cast resolve, and the precision of a surgeon. First off, she embarked on critical reviews and overview of the AICL trajectory from inception; identified germane issues; evolved strategies for re-positioning the company; enunciated quick-wins, short-term, medium-term, and long-term measures for development, and some others. All these were geared towards delivering (or surpassing) the Ministerial mandate, and also ensuring that the AICL contributes its quota to Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Indeed, it is imperative to note that the AICL, under the superintendent of Tamuno has literally drawn water out of rocks; which before now was largely unthinkable. That the soft-spoken and resourceful amazon; and her team were able to make noticeable impact within just one year, speaks volumes about her ingenuity, and indomitable spirit. In a broad sense, these achievements include encouraging economic diversification; expanding investment opportunities; exploring business and investment exchanges; deepening subsidiaries collaboration; and fostering diplomatic relationships.

In practical terms, the AICL, through some landmark initiatives has provided the platform for the promotion of trade and commerce, as well as economic growth and sustainable investment in the FCT. It is imperative to recall some of these laudable and trail-blazing projects. A few days back, the solar powered Farmers Market in Utako District and Kugbo International Market were commissioned by the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmud. Speaking at the epoch making events, Mahmud eulogized Tamuno for completing the first-of-its-kind projects which, “would provide employment opportunities for a wide range of people in line with the “Renewed Hope” agenda.” While explaining that the projects are under the Public Private Partnership initiative of the AICL, Tamuno promised that, “under the Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) arrangement, the government will combine with the private sector to create profitable and sustainable public infrastructure. We identified Small and Medium Enterprises, (SMEs) as the backbone of any prosperous economy, because they create jobs that drive sustainable economic growth.” To underscore AICL’s commitment towards encouraging the informal sector, shops were gifted to some hardworking traders from all the six Area Councils of the FCT.

In October 2024, the AICL organized a two-day Abuja Business and Investment Summit with the theme: “Optimizing Investments Through Partnership.” The event, geared towards promoting investment opportunities in the FCT, was attended by major stakeholders in finance, investment, manufacturing, and other sectors. Participants opened new alliances, partnerships, and collaborations for new opportunities and innovations that will lead to micro and macro development. Tamuno, who by the way was one-time Nigeria’s Ambassador to Jamaica is leveraging on her diplomatic credentials and network to re-position the AICL. She is regularly engaging, and exploring investment opportunities with foreign countries through their diplomats in Nigeria. Through her participation at the maiden Nigeria-Kazakhstan Business Conference which was held in Abuja, in 2024, there are advanced plans for the establishment of city-to-city flights between both countries, as well as collaborations in agriculture, education, technology, logistics, and more.

Agreed, the journey is somewhat far but the AICL, under the new chief executive has shown unbridled commitment, and unflinching fervor in elevating the status, and relevance of the company towards engendering meaningful growth and development of the FCT. Tamuno has shown relentless drive and boundless energies towards justifying the confidence reposed in her by Wike. Posting an encouraging report-card in one year deserves commendations and encouragement. Mr. Olugbenga Okanlawon, an Abuja based public affairs analyst declared that, “she has shown that she is the right person for the job. Considering what the AICL has achieved in one year, it is clear that more grounds will be covered in terms of growth and development.” A frequent caller to the AICL who preferred anonymity said, “the GMD has brought a new lease of life to the place, and everybody has imbibed her can-do-it spirit with much pride, and belief.”

BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.

By Jamilu Abdussalam Hajaj

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Katsina should have been a pivotal moment—an opportunity for the state to draw national attention to its pressing challenges, developmental milestones, and future aspirations. Unfortunately, what should have been a strategic communication moment for the state turned into a viral distraction.

From the streets of Katsina to the corners of social media, two things dominated the narrative: a campaign-style song from singer Rarara and a casual handshake between the President and Aisha Humaira. These moments, while lighthearted and culturally expressive, overshadowed the very essence of a presidential visit—governance, development, and accountability.

It raises a critical question: Was the state’s PR machinery asleep, or was the leadership not interested in framing the visit within a narrative that could catalyze national interest, policy focus, or even investment in Katsina?

In a time when states are competing for federal attention, donor support, and private capital, optics matter. Yet, in Katsina, a sitting governor was cheering a singer on and clapping joyfully to impress the President. A presidential visit is not just a ceremonial tour; it is a platform. It’s the time to walk the President through pressing realities— insecurity in rural areas, the economic potential in agriculture, the struggles with education, the underfunded health sector, the resilience of the people, and the efforts already underway to tackle these issues.

Instead, the silence around these important issues was deafening.

No strategic documentaries. No impactful speeches. No high-level stakeholder engagements positioned in the media. No community interactions that could inspire federal interventions. Not even a strong visual presentation of the state’s development agenda.

Governance is not just about doing the work; it’s about telling the story. And in that regard, Katsina missed the moment.

This visit should have been used to showcase the hard work of the administration (if there is any to show), to call for more support where needed, and to galvanize public interest and empathy. But when all that trends from a presidential visit are a song and a handshake, it’s safe to say the moment was poorly managed or, worse, completely misunderstood.

Moving forward, states must take public relations seriously—not for propaganda, but for perception, engagement, and strategic positioning. Because if you don’t control the narrative, someone else will. And often, they will focus on the trivial and mundane parts, not the transformational.