On Friday, reports surfaced regarding the arrest of Martins Vincent Otse, the social media influencer known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), by the Nigerian Police Force in Abuja. The arrest, confirmed by his lawyer Denise Adeyanju via X (formerly Twitter), occurred at a branch of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB).

Mr. Adeyanju stated he spoke with authorities prior to the arrest and characterized the action as “absolutely unacceptable,” adding, “Demanding accountability is not a crime.” He further indicated that VDM was arrested alongside a friend, identified as C Park.

While details surrounding the circumstances of the arrest remain limited, this incident marks a second instance of police detention for VDM, following a prior invitation and subsequent detention in November 2024. The Nigerian Police Force has yet to release an official statement regarding the arrest. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

The Trump administration has unveiled a budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year, advocating for a substantial $163 billion reduction in federal spending. This proposal targets non-military discretionary spending, excluding mandatory programs, with a proposed cut of 23%, bringing it to its lowest level since 2017.

Simultaneously, the budget outlines significant increases in defense and homeland security spending, marking a 13% and nearly 65% rise, respectively, compared to 2025 levels. The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director, Russ Vought, defended the proposal, emphasizing the need to prioritize national security and reverse perceived decline.

While the White House budget request provides a comprehensive roadmap for government agency spending, the final responsibility for crafting spending legislation rests with the Republican-controlled Congress. Disagreements within the party regarding funding for tax cuts, coupled with growing economic concerns stemming from US tariff policies, may complicate the legislative process and potentially lead to a budget that diverges significantly from the initial White House proposal.

Reports have emerged regarding an attack on the “Conscience,” a vessel belonging to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, while in international waters off Malta. The ship, reportedly carrying humanitarian aid and activists bound for Gaza, was allegedly targeted by armed drones early Friday morning.

According to the Coalition’s statement, the attack resulted in a fire and significant hull breach, disabling the vessel and endangering its crew. Images circulating online corroborate these claims, showing substantial damage to the ship.

Maltese authorities have confirmed the safety of the twelve crew members and four civilians onboard. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has attributed the attack to Israel, although official confirmation is pending.

This incident raises serious concerns about the safety of humanitarian aid missions and freedom of navigation in international waters. Investigations are underway to determine the perpetrators and circumstances surrounding this act. The incident is likely to further escalate tensions in the region and draw international condemnation.