Mark Otse thanks supporters, recounts peaceful protest for VeryDarkMan’s release in Abuja

• Following the peaceful protest that was held on behalf of VeryDarkMan's freedom, his brother, Mark Otse, expressed gratitude to protesters
• He revealed his experience with poor customer service from GTBank and indifference from the EFCC
• Support from prominent figures like former presidential candidate Peter Obi and others has come in for the social media critic, VeryDarkMan

On May 5, a peaceful protest in Abuja advocated for the release of VeryDarkMan, who had been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Addressing netizens and passionate supporters, Otse provided updates about the situation and thanked everyone who participated in the protest, acknowledging the courage it took to leave their comfort zones.

The protest, initially planned to converge at GTBank, took a turn when Otse encountered hostile customer service there. 

In a video shared on his Instagram page @mac_avelli001, he stated, “They were not friendly to me, and they asked me to go to another banking branch, after they declared no function for four consecutive days.” 

Unyieldingly, the group of protesters proceeded to the EFCC's office, hoping for a dialogue, but were met with similar indifference. Otse stated, “They tried to push us to react aggressively, however, we remained calm,” showcasing their determination to maintain peace despite provocation.

He further expressed immense gratitude towards everyone for their support, including a commendation for former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who stated that “The arrest of Verydarkman and oppression of young voices is a dangerous path that we must not normalise in Nigeria.”

Many other public voices have come out to speak about the arrest and the seemingly unjust treatment that is being overlooked. This protest has not been restricted to the physical assembly, but rather it has captured the interest of netizens and sparked widespread reactions across social media. The protest is set to resume on Tuesday, May 6. 

According to reports, the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, broke the silence about the arrest of VDM.  

The reports claimed VeryDarkMan was arrested due to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners, and that he will be released when he meets the bail conditions. 

However, the commission’s X account has dismissed claims that its spokesperson addressed the matter, calling them fake news.

VeryDarkMan's lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, speaks on VDM's arrest 

Meanwhile, VeryDarkMan's lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, reported that the EFCC has been waving off an explanation for his client’s arrest. He noted that after demanding the petitions for his arrest, they tendered nothing. 

He stated, "Got into the country this evening and went straight to VDM at EFCC. Just left him. We still cannot understand why he was arrested. EFCC said there’s no petition against him after our repeated demands."  

Reactions trail Mark Otse’s video

@_ogidiga wrote: “When your brother said they will lose their credibility for his popularity you thought he does know what his doing??? Your brother he's genius his knows how to play this game that are playing with him.”

@betterayaru wrote: “Please have you seen VDM face to face? I'm very worried about him since he was kidnapped by EFCC.”

@officialmercyore wrote: “God bless and strengthen everyone at this movement.”

@papaejima_comedy wrote: “Yes bro I led Lagos protest tooo we will continue till Dey release VDMS.”

@official_nwosu_bloger wrote: “Thank you to all ratle over the world I really appreciate you all.”

@babilistic wrote: “Well done everyone! Your courage, unity and strength speaks louder than any oppression. May God continue to protect you, bless your voices and keep you safe as you stand for truth and justice.”

@onlybigmare wrote: “Ratels we no go ever fall... we never even start this is just the beginning.”

@kayodeekundina wrote: “Gt bank should be mindful if not they will crash beyond their expectation.”

@official_n_i_t_a wrote: “Well done guys God richly bless n protect y'all n ur families #freevdm #freevdmnow”

@Hans_jumbo wrote: “@mac_avelli001 you're wise man.. proud of you bro. @jojooflele weldone... thanks for the post and support rates are wise….”

@vjisrael wrote: “You are such a good brother. Well done. #FREEVDM.”

@kingstewnation wrote: “Lass lass na Good news we go hear in Jesus Name Amen.”

@sandyberry31 wrote: “God will continue to protect you guys.“

@vince_lionel wrote: “Ratel movement too big.”

Mark Otse warns against chaos ahead of protest over brother VeryDarkMan's arrest

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that in response to VeryDarkMan's arrest, his brother, Mark Otse, shared guidelines for a peaceful protest at GTBank. 

He emphasised that the guidelines for the protest include appropriate dress, demeanour, and adherence to peaceful protest norms.

The online community remains divided over the circumstances of VeryDarkMan's arrest, with varying perspectives on the EFCC's actions.