The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of social media influencer and activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), citing petitions alleging financial crimes.
EFCC’s Statement
In a Tuesday post on X, the anti-graft agency stated that Otse repeatedly ignored invitations sent to his known addresses before his arrest.
“The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission,” the EFCC said, adding that it secured a lawful remand order and has offered him administrative bail pending the fulfillment of conditions.
The commission denied that the arrest was linked to Otse’s past criticisms of its operations, vowing to file charges after investigations conclude.
Public Outcry and Protests
VDM’s arrest on May 2 sparked protests in Abuja, with demonstrators demanding his release and alleging political repression. The 2023 presidential candidates of the PDP and Labour Party, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, criticized the detention, with Obi calling the arrest “abduction-like.”
Nigerian music star Davido also joined calls for Otse’s freedom, posting: “FREE MY GUY.”
The EFCC urged the public to allow it to perform its duties without interference, emphasizing its commitment to due process.
