Veteran Nigerian musician Eedris Abdulkareem has once again stepped into the spotlight, this time rallying his fans to demand the release of embattled social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM). In a viral video making waves across social media, Abdulkareem passionately called on supporters to raise their torches and chant “Free VDM,” as a symbol of resistance against government oppression.

The outspoken singer, whose recent diss track was controversially banned from both radio and television, used the moment to criticize the government’s priorities. “We’re asking for basic rights, not too much,” he shouted, as his followers echoed his chants.

Abdulkareem pointed to the surging costs of essential commodities like data and rice, questioning why voices speaking up for the masses were being silenced instead of heard. His fiery callout highlights growing public frustration over economic hardship and censorship.

The solidarity comes on the heels of VDM’s earlier support for Abdulkareem, after the activist pledged to sponsor a remix of the now-banned track and expressed interest in a collaboration. Their shared defiance has since galvanized a segment of the public demanding justice and freedom of expression.

“Instead of addressing real issues, they’re banning music,” Abdulkareem lamented. “We won’t be quiet.”