Popular Nigerian social commentator, VeryDarkMan, has reacted to the growing backlash over rising domestic airfare prices, openly defending airline operators and dismissing public outrage as misplaced.

In a video shared online, VeryDarkMan revealed the amounts he recently paid for air travel, stating that he spent ₦300,000 on a flight from Abuja to Adamawa, another ₦300,000 for the return journey, and ₦280,000 for a flight to Lagos. According to him, the high fares did not bother him in the slightest.

Reacting to widespread complaints on social media, he criticised Nigerians who have condemned airlines over the price increases, arguing that many of them are merely attempting to discredit private businesses.

He maintained that airlines, like any other private enterprise, have the right to set their prices based on operational realities and market forces.

“If they hike the price, it’s their business,” he said. “If you don’t like it, go and buy your own aeroplane and start your own airline.”

VeryDarkMan insisted that affordability—not unfair pricing—is the real issue behind the public outcry, stressing that people who cannot afford the fares should stop attacking airline operators.

He further stated that he would have no issue paying even higher prices if necessary.

“Even if they increase it to ₦1 million, I can afford it and I will pay,” he said. “Just because you can’t afford something doesn’t mean you should bring down someone else’s business.”

His comments have since sparked fresh debate online, with Nigerians divided over whether the rising cost of air travel is justified or exploitative amid the country’s current economic challenges.