Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
Popular Nigerian activist and content creator, Martins Vincent Otse, better known as Verydarkman (VDM), has fulfilled a promise made last year by commissioning a solar-powered borehole for the people of Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
Social media posts circulating on Facebook show the completed project, including images of a tall water tank tower fitted with solar panels, elevated platform, and signage reading “(IMVOI) RATEL MOVEMENT SOLAR BOREHOLE 4 YELEWATA.” Several individuals, including supporters associated with the RATEL MOVEMENT, are seen posing proudly atop the structure.
According to accounts shared by users, VDM visited Yelewata following a devastating attack reportedly carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen last year. During that visit, he reportedly promised to provide piped borehole water to help address the community’s water challenges, particularly in the aftermath of displacement and destruction caused by the violence.
Posts credit VDM with delivering on that commitment through his NGO or initiative, referred to in some messages as IMVOI and linked to the RATEL MOVEMENT. One user noted that while his team reportedly faced challenges (described as “juju” interference) during a similar effort in Kogi State, the Yelewata project was successfully completed.
“Thank you VDM for installing borehole for Yelewata people,” one post read, while others urged followers to join in thanking the “RATEL PRESIDENT” and used hashtags such as #IKnowWhereIBelong to express support.
The borehole installation has been presented as an example of where funds raised or channeled through VDM’s NGO activities are being directed—toward tangible infrastructure support in affected rural communities.
Yelewata, like many communities in Benue State’s Guma and surrounding areas, has faced repeated attacks, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and disruption of basic services including access to clean water. Humanitarian interventions, whether from government, NGOs, or individuals, often focus on restoring essential amenities such as water supply to support returning or remaining residents.
VDM, who has built a large online following through his advocacy on social justice issues, corruption exposés, and direct community interventions, has increasingly highlighted hands-on aid projects. The Yelewata borehole delivery has drawn appreciation from several online users who see it as proof of accountability and follow-through on promises made to vulnerable populations.
While no official statement from VDM himself was included in the shared posts, the visual evidence and celebratory messages suggest the project has been well received locally and is being used to reinforce narratives around transparent and impactful use of public donations or NGO resources.
