In a surprising and heartfelt announcement that sent ripples through social media on Sunday, popular activist and online personality, VeryFairMan, revealed that he will not be able to lead the highly anticipated #FreeVDM protest scheduled to take place in Port Harcourt due to ill health. The declaration, made via a video message posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, has drawn a wave of emotional reactions from supporters and fellow activists across Nigeria who had been counting on his leadership and presence.

The #FreeVDM protest, which has been gaining massive traction online over the past week, was originally planned as a peaceful demonstration against what many describe as the unjust detention of digital activist VDM, also known as VeryDarkMan. VDM has become a lightning rod in recent months for his outspoken commentary on social and political issues, often clashing with powerful figures in both the public and private sectors. His arrest and subsequent detention have been viewed by many as a clampdown on free speech and civic expression, prompting waves of online outrage and plans for nationwide protests under the banner #FreeVDM.

VeryFairMan, who has been one of the loudest and most consistent voices in the campaign to release VeryDarkMan, was expected to headline the Port Harcourt protest, widely considered one of the movement’s pivotal events. With his passionate delivery, bold rhetoric, and ability to mobilize crowds, his presence was seen as vital in drawing attention to the cause and putting pressure on authorities. His announcement, therefore, comes as a huge blow to many who had already made plans to travel to the Rivers State capital to stand with him in solidarity.

In the video, VeryFairMan appeared visibly fatigued, his voice softer than usual, his tone unusually sober. “I deeply regret to inform you all that I will not be able to physically lead the protest in Port Harcourt due to a sudden health complication,” he said. “This is not a decision I take lightly. I have fought too long and too hard for this movement, and missing this protest is personally heartbreaking. But I have to prioritize my health and take time to recover properly.”

He went on to assure supporters that the protest would go on as planned and encouraged them to maintain the spirit of peaceful resistance. “This fight is bigger than any one individual. What we are doing is for justice, for freedom of speech, and for all of us who are tired of being silenced. My absence should not dampen the fire burning in all of you. Let’s make it count,” he added.

Almost immediately after the video dropped, the #FreeVDM hashtag trended again, this time accompanied by hashtags like #GetWellSoonVFM and #SolidarityInSickness. Messages of support poured in from fans, fellow activists, and celebrities, many of whom shared their personal experiences of how VeryFairMan has inspired them to speak out against injustice. Some even offered to take on leadership roles in his absence, insisting that the protest must go on no matter what.

One notable voice came from youth activist Lami Thompson, who tweeted, “VeryFairMan has carried this movement on his back from day one. If he says he needs to rest, we must honor that. Let’s show him that his efforts have not been in vain. Port Harcourt, we move!” The comment gained over 20,000 likes within an hour, illustrating the deep respect and admiration VeryFairMan commands among his peers.

Despite the setback, preparations for the Port Harcourt protest appear to be continuing at full steam. Local organizers have confirmed that logistics are in place and volunteers are ready to step in and ensure the demonstration remains peaceful and impactful. “We are all disappointed that VFM won’t be with us physically, but we are also galvanized by his commitment and the overwhelming support we’ve received,” said Chinedu Eke, one of the regional coordinators. “His health may have slowed him down momentarily, but the movement is stronger than ever.”

While the precise nature of VeryFairMan’s health issue was not disclosed, close associates say he has been under immense stress in recent weeks, juggling multiple campaigns, online advocacy, and grassroots organizing. One insider revealed that he had been experiencing bouts of fatigue and shortness of breath, but refused to take time off until his body finally forced him to.

This isn’t the first time the digital activism space has had to reckon with the toll such relentless advocacy can take on its leaders. Over the past few years, several prominent voices in Nigeria’s social justice movement have stepped back from public life due to burnout, threats, or health concerns. Observers say this points to a larger issue about the sustainability of grassroots movements that are often led by individuals with limited support and constant exposure to online and offline hostility.

Still, in the face of these challenges, the #FreeVDM campaign continues to grow. Multiple cities have scheduled their own solidarity protests, including Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, and Kaduna. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of VeryDarkMan have been echoed by human rights organizations and civil liberty groups, some of whom have started petitioning international bodies to intervene.

As for VeryFairMan, supporters are hoping he gets the rest and care he needs to make a full recovery. Many are also calling for better structures to support activists, suggesting the creation of wellness funds, legal support teams, and mental health resources for those leading the charge for change.

Meanwhile, the protest in Port Harcourt is still slated for this week, with organizers urging participants to maintain decorum, respect law enforcement, and document any irregularities during the event. “We are watching,” said another activist, “and even in VFM’s absence, we’ll be loud enough for him to hear from wherever he is. This is not the end. It’s just a pause.”

As the countdown to the protest continues, the words of VeryFairMan resonate deeply: “Let my absence be a reminder that this fight must outlive any one person. Let justice echo beyond faces and names. Let it live in the streets, in your voices, and in our unity.”

It remains to be seen how the absence of such a prominent figure will affect turnout, but if the online response is anything to go by, the streets of Port Harcourt may soon echo with chants demanding justice, freedom, and accountability—carried forward not by one man, but by many.