“They Called Me a Manipulator, But Schools Are Open Now” – VDM Reacts as FCT Teachers End Strike

• VDM has taken to social media to declare victory after the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) teachers finally called off their three-month strike, following N16 billion in wage payments disbursed by Minister Nyesom Wike

• His post came shortly after reports confirmed that the FCT chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) had called off the industrial action.

Popular social commentator, VeryDarkMan (VDM), has shared an emotional reaction following the suspension of the three-month strike by teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Taking to social media, VDM addressed the backlash he received during the strike, especially after he led a protest involving school children to demand the reopening of schools. In his words: “People said I was a manipulator for using school children to protest, now we have manipulated the government into opening the schools.”

His post came shortly after reports confirmed that the FCT chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) had called off the industrial action. The breakthrough reportedly came after the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, released ₦16 billion to settle the backlog of salaries and entitlements.

During the strike, VDM’s bold move to involve students in peaceful protests drew both criticism and support. While many questioned his method, others commended him for standing up for the right of children to access education.

Now, with teachers returning to the classroom and students preparing to resume, his message carries the weight of both relief and quiet vindication. For him, the focus was always on the future of the children — and he believes the fight was worth it.

The development has been welcomed by parents and stakeholders across the FCT, many of whom are hopeful that such prolonged disruptions won’t happen again.