Popular social media activist and commentator, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of abandoning Nigerian students studying in Morocco. The accusation, made in a viral video, has sparked public concern and renewed debate about the welfare of Nigerians studying abroad under government-supported programmes.
In the emotional video shared online, VDM criticised the federal government, saying Nigerian students sent to Morocco on scholarship had been left to suffer without proper support. He alleged that some of the students were begging for money to feed themselves and survive.
“There is no future for Nigerians in the hands of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” VDM said in the video. “A government that would give its citizens stone instead of bread.”
VDM specifically called out the Minister of Education, Mr Maruf Tunji Alausa, accusing his office of failing to take responsibility for Nigerian students studying abroad.
“Your office took our brothers and sisters outside Nigeria and abandoned them here,” VDM said. “I believe there is a budget for the project. If so, why have you abandoned them?”
He claimed that students who were sent to Morocco under a scholarship programme were left without financial support for basic needs such as food and accommodation. According to him, the students now rely on begging to survive.
VDM also alleged that he personally encountered some of the students in Morocco, where they approached him in tears to explain their situation.
One of the most serious claims made by VDM was that a Nigerian student studying in Morocco under the scholarship programme had died due to the alleged neglect.
“I am sure you don’t even know that one of the kids sent to Morocco on scholarship has died,” he said, naming the student as Bashir Malami. He added, “Rest in peace, Bashir Malami.”
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian government has not confirmed the death or responded officially to the allegation. There has also been no independent verification of the claim. However, the statement has heightened public concern and calls for urgent clarification from authorities.
VDM also mentioned Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, in his criticism. He alleged that while students were suffering abroad, images of Seyi Tinubu were being shared online, suggesting a contrast between the struggles of ordinary Nigerians and the lifestyle of those close to power.
“Meanwhile, Seyi Tinubu’s picture is posted, while they go and beg for money every night to feed themselves here in Morocco,” VDM said.
This comment has further fueled online debate, with many Nigerians questioning government priorities and demanding accountability.
Nigeria has, over the years, sent students abroad under various scholarship schemes, including bilateral agreements with countries such as Morocco. These programmes are often designed to help students study fields like medicine, engineering, and science, especially in countries with strong educational systems.
Under such arrangements, students are usually supported with tuition, accommodation, and monthly allowances, either by the Nigerian government, the host country, or both. Any disruption in funding can leave students vulnerable, especially those who rely fully on the scholarship for survival.
In the past, Nigerian students studying in countries such as Sudan, Ukraine, and Cyprus have raised similar complaints about delayed allowances and poor support from government agencies.
VDM’s video has generated strong reactions on social media. Many Nigerians expressed anger and disappointment, calling on the federal government to investigate the claims and ensure the safety and welfare of the students.
Some users demanded an immediate response from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while others urged Nigerian embassies abroad to do more to protect citizens.
As of the time of writing, neither the Ministry of Education nor the Presidency has issued an official statement addressing the allegations. The Nigerian Embassy in Morocco has also not publicly commented on the matter.
In similar cases in the past, government officials have sometimes denied claims of abandonment, arguing that delays were due to administrative issues or changes in funding arrangements. However, the lack of immediate response in this case has increased public pressure.
President Bola Tinubu’s administration has repeatedly promised to focus on education, youth development, and human capital growth. Since assuming office, the government has introduced reforms in the education sector, though it has also faced criticism over rising costs of living and reduced social support.
For many Nigerians, the situation of students abroad has become a symbol of broader concerns about governance and care for citizens, especially young people.
VDM, known for his outspoken activism, has vowed to continue speaking out until the issue is addressed. His video has once again shown the power of social media in drawing attention to public issues.