In a bold and symbolic demonstration, social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), staged a protest today at the gates of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister’s office, drawing attention to the ongoing strike by primary school teachers in Abuja.
The protest, which featured dozens of schoolchildren dressed in their uniforms, was a dramatic call for action after more than 90 days of halted academic activity due to the failure of Area Council Chairmen to implement the ₦70,000 national minimum wage for teachers. The children, led by VDM, participated in a mock classroom session outside the Ministry, chanting satirical alphabet rhymes such as “S for Suegbe, T for Tinubu, W for Wike” in a pointed critique of political leadership.
VDM, clad in a school uniform himself, declared the protest a peaceful but urgent plea for the government to prioritize education. “Today is for the students,” he said, warning that if no action is taken within seven days, a larger protest involving pupils from across the FCT would follow.
Responding to the protest, Bitrus Garki, Mandate Secretary of the Area Councils Services Secretariat, acknowledged the FCT Administration’s ongoing mediation efforts but emphasized that the responsibility lies with the Area Councils. “We have received your message loud and clear,” Garki stated, while urging patience as discussions with stakeholders continue.
The protest also spotlighted broader concerns, with VDM announcing plans to lead a similar demonstration over the strike by primary healthcare workers, who are also demanding implementation of the new wage structure.