KEY POINTS

• EFCC plans to release VeryDarkMan, charging him with cyberstalking.

• Protesters demand immediate release of social media activist in Abuja.

• Critics accuse EFCC of targeting dissent under the guise of law enforcement.

Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, is scheduled to be released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday. Several sources told Vanguard that the agency intends to formally charge him in court on Thursday.

EFCC prepares to release VeryDarkMan on Tuesday

The update was confirmed Monday by a senior EFCC official who spoke on condition of anonymity. Although Otse has not yet been formally arraigned, the official stated that he is still in detention. Following Otse’s arrest last Friday, which caused public outcry and accusations of a crackdown on free speech, the EFCC was under increasing pressure.

The EFCC is preparing several accusations against Otse, according to EFCC insiders. Numerous petitions alleging cyberstalking and other connected violations serve as the main basis for these charges. Numerous people and groups have filed petitions alleging that Otse harassed and intimidated people via social media.

There has been a lot of discussion on VeryDarkMan’s arrest both online and offline. The EFCC has come under fire for allegedly using the pretense of law enforcement to attack dissenting opinions. They contend that the arrest is a component of a larger attempt to stifle social and political activists who voice disapproval of government policy.

Protests erupt as public demands justice for VeryDarkMan

In order to demand Otse’s immediate release, protesters gathered in the Wuse sector of Abuja on Monday. The demonstrators carried signs that said, “End selective justice!” and “Free VDM!” Many demonstrators voiced their concerns over the EFCC’s alleged abuse of authority.

According to Vanguard, EFCC agents brought up VeryDarkMan, who is well-known for his candid criticism on social and political topics, on Friday, May 2. Because of his outspoken opinions and criticism of government policies, he has amassed a sizable online following.

Regarding the charges and the case’s following steps, the EFCC had not yet released an official comment as of the time of publication.