Shockwaves as Catholic Priest Empties GTBank Account in Solidarity with Arrested VeryDarkMan — Nigerians React

Abuja, Nigeria – May 5, 2025

In a move that has left many stunned and stirred a storm of reactions across the country, a Catholic priest has reportedly emptied his GTBank account in a bold show of support for embattled social media activist, VeryDarkMan, who was recently arrested under controversial circumstances.

The priest, identified as Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Okwudili, made the jaw-dropping revelation during a live Instagram session late Sunday night, stating that he could no longer sit idle while “truth is being punished and the fearless silenced.”

“I’ve withdrawn every naira I have in GTBank,” Fr. Emmanuel declared, holding up his account balance as proof. “If the system wants to silence those who speak for the oppressed, then I want no part in enabling that silence—not even through my bank.”

The statement instantly went viral, sparking a heated wave of reactions online. While many hailed the priest as a rare voice of courage and conviction, others questioned the effectiveness of such a gesture, calling it “dramatic but symbolic.”

Social Media Explodes

On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #StandWithVeryDarkMan began trending once again, with users sharing mixed opinions about the priest’s act.

“Fr. Emmanuel is what we need more of in this country. Men of God who stand with the people, not with power,” wrote one user.

Another posted: “While the gesture is noble, let’s hope it pushes the right buttons and not just fan online sentiments. We need strategy, not just emotion.”

GTBank Yet to Respond

As of the time of this report, GTBank has made no official statement regarding the priest’s action or the growing protests linking the financial institution to the public outcry surrounding VeryDarkMan’s arrest.

However, analysts say the incident reflects rising public frustration with perceived institutional silence in the face of injustice and the growing influence of grassroots voices challenging the status quo.

A Movement Beyond One Man

What began as a protest for one outspoken influencer is fast becoming a wider movement against censorship, oppression, and selective justice in Nigeria. And with figures like Rev. Emmanuel stepping into the ring, the momentum is unlikely to slow down soon.

One thing is clear: the arrest of VeryDarkMan has ignited more than a trending topic—it’s fanning the flames of a revolution powered by voices that refuse to be silenced.