In journalism, the metaphor of “minding the glasses” refers to understanding the fragility of facts and reputations while navigating complex narratives. Just as one is careful not to crack delicate lenses, responsible journalists tread carefully to avoid distorting the truth or damaging lives in the pursuit of justice or sensationalism. With social media now a dominant platform for discourse, this caution has become even more vital.
In recent times, a troubling phenomenon has emerged, where radical social media influencers cloak themselves under the guise of citizen journalism, wielding their platforms not to inform but to defame. This trend has been highlighted by the case of VeryDarkMan (VDM) against Nigerian rapper Falz and his father, the renowned lawyer Femi Falana, in the ongoing Bobrisky saga. These personalities—often on a quest to highlight social justice issues—sometimes lose sight of ethical boundaries, leading to destruction that mirrors the actions of Hancock, the reckless superhero who destroys too much in an attempt to save too little.
The battle surrounding Bobrisky, Nigeria's controversial crossdresser and social media personality, has been heated. What started as a discourse about morality and cultural values quickly spiraled into personal attacks, misinformation, and public defamation. In the heart of this storm, VDM, an individual with a substantial following, allegedly spread damaging claims against Falz and Falana, accusing them of defending or aligning with Bobrisky’s agenda. These accusations, however, seem to be far from the truth.
The reach of social media allows influencers like VDM to bypass traditional journalistic checks and balances, leaving the subjects of their accusations with little to no recourse in real time. The speed at which information—and misinformation—travels on platforms like Twitter and Instagram means that even retractions, when they happen, can’t undo the reputational harm inflicted in the moment.
But why does this happen? Social media influencers often operate with a flawed sense of invincibility, feeling as though their moral crusades justify any means of attack. In their minds, they are David taking on Goliath—the supposed corrupt elites, celebrities, or politicians—without recognizing that, in many cases, they are merely swinging blindly. This brings to mind the fictional character Hancock, whose desire to save lives and stop crime is admirable but whose reckless behavior leaves a trail of collateral damage. Similarly, influencers like VDM may believe they are fighting for justice, but their unchecked actions often leave individuals like Falz and Falana to pick up the pieces of their tarnished reputations.
Falz, a known advocate for social justice and human rights, has consistently used his music and platform to speak against societal ills, including police brutality during the #EndSARS protests. His father, Femi Falana, is a highly respected lawyer and human rights activist. Yet, they found themselves targeted in a twisted narrative that serves no purpose but to fan the flames of division and misunderstanding. This case, emblematic of a larger trend, raises critical questions about the ethics of citizen journalism.
Citizen journalism has empowered ordinary individuals to challenge the status quo, shine a light on corruption, and advocate for marginalized voices. But as we celebrate the democratization of media, we must also recognize the responsibility that comes with wielding such influence. The line between holding powerful people accountable and spreading unverified, damaging claims has become dangerously thin. If influencers don’t “mind the glasses” and exercise caution in their reporting, they risk shattering the very principles they claim to defend.
The truth is that justice is not served by destroying reputations without cause. VDM, and others like him, have an obligation to ensure that their accusations are well-founded, their information verified, and their actions measured. Failure to do so only reinforces the perception that social media influencers are less concerned with justice and more with the attention their inflammatory posts generate.
As Nigerians continue to engage with social media discourse, it’s crucial that we learn to discern between genuine journalism and what is effectively defamation masquerading as social justice. In this age of information overload, it's all too easy for personal vendettas and social agendas to blur the lines between fact and fiction. Influencers should heed this warning: while seeking to highlight societal issues, mind the glasses, pull the brakes, and remember that the pursuit of justice does not give one a free pass to destroy lives.
In the end, just as Hancock had to learn to control his strength to prevent unnecessary destruction, radical social media influencers must understand that the power of their platforms comes with responsibility. Journalism, whether practiced by professionals or citizens, demands careful navigation of the truth, respect for reputations, and the humility to admit when we may be doing more harm than good.
The public deserves better, and so do those whose names and legacies are at stake.
Seun Joseph writes from Hull
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