**Interview with Michael Felix Nyeche: The Rise of VeryDarkMan and the Failures of Nigerian Institutions**

**Interviewer:** Michael, your friend’s difficulties with land acquisition in Port Harcourt have really caught attention. What inspired you to write about his experience?

**Michael Felix Nyeche:** My friend’s aspiration to own a piece of land in his hometown is something many of us can relate to. However, his journey turned into a nightmare, exposing a deeper issue—how Nigerian institutions often neglect the very individuals they’re supposed to safeguard. I felt it was essential to highlight this pressing problem, as it’s a reality for countless Nigerians facing similar hardships.

**Interviewer:** You pointed out the unfulfilled promises from PWAN Royale. Can you tell us more about how this situation impacted your friend?

**Michael:** After my friend paid for the land, he was met with silence. Despite his numerous attempts to contact them, he only received vague assurances. He eventually sought help from the Consumer Protection Council, which acknowledged his complaint but did little beyond that. This pervasive sense of helplessness is something many Nigerians experience, feeling overlooked by the systems that are supposed to assist them.

**Interviewer:** You mentioned a public figure known as VeryDarkMan. How did he come into play?

**Michael:** A friend suggested reaching out to VeryDarkMan, a social media influencer known for challenging injustices. For my friend, it felt like a last resort—seeking help from an individual rather than an institution. This highlights a broader reality: in a corrupt system, many people have lost confidence in traditional avenues for justice.

**Interviewer:** What do you believe is fueling the popularity of VeryDarkMan?

**Michael:** His rise reflects a society increasingly disillusioned with its institutions. VeryDarkMan embodies the frustration of everyday Nigerians who feel neglected. People now turn to him for solutions, viewing him as more effective than the entities meant to protect them. It’s a stark reminder of the systemic failures we face.

**Interviewer:** You drew attention to the absence of Nigerian police during the Rivers State Local Government elections. What’s your take on that?

**Michael:** The situation presented a stark contrast. The missing police force underscored the deficiencies in law enforcement. Yet, on the other hand, the community came together to organize their voting efforts, showcasing their resilience and resourcefulness. This self-organization sends a strong message about the growing discontent with institutions meant to uphold public interests.

**Interviewer:** What potential consequences do you see if this trend continues?

**Michael:** The emergence of figures like VeryDarkMan indicates a concerning shift. If citizens feel they can’t depend on institutions, they’ll seek alternatives, risking a breakdown of civil order. While these individual figures might temporarily fill the gap, they cannot replace the need for accountable and effective institutions. Without meaningful reform, we risk fostering a society reliant on solitary voices, which could ultimately lead to chaos.

**Interviewer:** How do you believe Nigerian institutions can regain public trust?

**Michael:** Institutional reform is crucial. We need systems that prioritize accountability, transparency, and a genuine commitment to serving the public. It’s not just about permanence; it’s about effective service. Trust can only be restored when institutions engage sincerely with the communities they claim to serve. If not, we’ll see more citizens looking to figures like VeryDarkMan, perpetuating a cycle of reliance on individual advocates.

**Interviewer:** What message do you want your writing to convey to readers?

**Michael:** I aim to ignite discussions around the urgent need for reform. When institutions fail, they risk losing the people’s trust. We need to collaborate on rebuilding those foundations so that citizens don’t have to depend on social media figures for justice. The government’s role should focus on serving the community and ensuring stability—not leaving individuals to navigate challenges alone.

**Interviewer:** Thank you, Michael, for sharing your valuable insights on these pressing issues.

**Michael:** Thank you for having me. It’s a critical conversation that we must continue.