KEY POINTS

• Popular activist and influencer VeryDarkMan has been released from EFCC custody following days of detention over undisclosed allegations filed by multiple petitioners.

• His arrest drew public condemnation from political leaders and celebrities, and sparked street protests in Abuja demanding his release.

• Legal and civil rights advocates are calling for greater transparency in EFCC’s arrest procedures and protections for activists exercising free speech.

Popular Nigerian activist and social media figure, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has regained his freedom after spending several days in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

His release, confirmed by his lawyer Deji Adeyanju and Channelstv, followed mounting public pressure and widespread criticism from both citizens and high-profile figures across the country.

VDM was arrested by EFCC operatives last Friday at a Guaranty Trust Bank branch in Abuja. His detention was initially shrouded in uncertainty, sparking an online storm of speculation and condemnation. In a phone call with reporters, Adeyanju stated, “VDM has been released from EFCC custody and is in good spirits.”

VeryDarkMan: Arrest triggers protests and political backlash

Following his arrest, the EFCC confirmed on Monday through its spokesperson Dele Oyewale that the agency was indeed responsible for detaining Otse. Oyewale stated that the arrest stemmed from “a series of allegations raised against him by several petitioners.” He added, “We arrested him (VDM) to respond to these petitions. Once he met the bail conditions, he was released. The case will proceed to court in due time.”

While the specific nature of the allegations remains undisclosed, Oyewale emphasized the agency’s responsibility to protect the privacy of complainants. “We have to respect the identities of those who came forward,” he said, while reiterating that the agency acted within the law.

VDM’s arrest provoked widespread outrage online and offline. Numerous public figures, including 2023 presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, publicly condemned the EFCC’s handling of the matter. Nigerian music star Davido also weighed in, urging for the immediate release of the activist.

On the streets of Abuja, young protesters mobilized on Monday morning to demand VDM’s freedom. Chanting slogans and holding placards that read “Justice for VDM” and “Freedom of Expression Is Not a Crime,” the demonstrators decried what they described as a misuse of state power.

“This is clearly an attempt to silence a voice speaking out for ordinary people,” said one protester. “VDM uses his platform to hold power to account, and now they want to shut him down.”

VeryDarkMan has risen to prominence in recent years for his outspoken views on corruption, injustice, and abuse of power. His videos and posts, often controversial, have attracted both praise and criticism, but they have earned him a substantial following among young Nigerians who view him as a fearless critic of the establishment.

Legal experts have also weighed in on the situation. Constitutional lawyer Dr. Femi Agbo called for greater transparency in the EFCC’s arrest protocols, stating, “While the EFCC is empowered to investigate financial crimes, the public deserves a clear and timely explanation when a high-profile arrest is made. Detaining someone without promptly filing charges raises legal and ethical concerns.”

Otse, upon his release, has yet to make a public statement. However, sources close to him say he is consulting with his legal team to determine the next steps in his defense.

The incident has reignited debates about the boundaries of activism and the role of law enforcement agencies in a democracy. Civil society organizations are now demanding reforms in the EFCC’s operating procedures and have called for oversight mechanisms to prevent the abuse of power.

As Nigerians await clarity on the nature of the charges and the future of the case, the spotlight remains firmly on the EFCC and its handling of prominent cases involving social critics.