- The EFCC arrested activist VeryDarkMan in Abuja over alleged financial and cybercrime offenses
- His arrest sparked nationwide protests and global outrage, with #FreeVeryDarkMan trending online
- The EFCC denies political motives, claiming he ignored multiple summons before a lawful arrest
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest and detention of popular Nigerian activist and social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over allegations of financial and cyber-related crimes.
The arrest has ignited intense protests both within Nigeria and internationally, with thousands demanding his immediate release and accusing authorities of political persecution.
According to eyewitness accounts, VeryDarkMan was apprehended on May 2, 2025, at a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Area 3, Garki, Abuja. He was reportedly trapped inside the bank’s security exit door for several minutes until EFCC operatives arrived to effect the arrest.
Activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju condemned the incident, stating, “VDM was locked inside the GTBank exit door to delay him until the EFCC arrived. We will take legal action against the bank for aiding this arrest.”
The EFCC, in its official statement, said it acted in line with its mandate to investigate economic and financial crimes. The Commission disclosed that Otse had previously ignored several invitations for questioning over a series of petitions alleging grave financial misconduct.
"Despite multiple summons sent to his known addresses and communication channels, Mr. Otse refused to present himself for questioning. His arrest was lawfully executed, and an appropriate remand order was obtained," the Commission said.
The agency, however, dismissed claims that the arrest was retaliatory or influenced by Otse’s frequent online criticisms of government institutions. "While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into those separately," the EFCC clarified.
The Commission added that Otse has been offered administrative bail and will be released once all conditions are met.
Widespread protests, public outcry for VeryDarkMan’s release
The arrest has since drawn massive public backlash. In Nigeria, protests erupted in major cities including Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Benin City, with demonstrators chanting “Free VeryDarkMan” and carrying signs that read “Stop Silencing the Truth.” Protesters accuse the EFCC of using its power to intimidate outspoken voices and suppress free speech.
International solidarity protests were also held by the Nigerian diaspora in London, New York, Toronto, and Berlin. In these cities, supporters gathered in front of Nigerian embassies and media outlets, condemning the arrest as an attack on activism and demanding transparency from the EFCC.
Online, social media platforms have been flooded with the hashtag #FreeVeryDarkMan, with millions of posts, tweets, and videos calling attention to his case. Public figures, civil society organizations, and rights activists have all weighed in, warning that the move could erode public trust in Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions.
EFCC responds to pro-VeryDarkMan protests
In response to the uproar, the EFCC reiterated its commitment to professionalism and transparency.
"The EFCC appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm, and reactions to our activities are noted. However, we urge the public to allow the Commission to do its job without fear or favour. Once investigations are complete, charges will be filed as required by law."
The Commission maintained that its actions are in accordance with Nigerian laws and stressed that no individual is above scrutiny, regardless of their public profile or social influence.
As of the time of this report, legal representatives for Otse are reportedly preparing to challenge the arrest in court, citing possible rights violations and procedural breaches during the operation.
The case continues to dominate headlines and spark national conversation about the limits of state power, the role of influencers in activism, and the future of accountability in Nigeria’s justice system.
Mark Otse warns against chaos ahead of protest over brother VeryDarkMan's arrest
Earlier, TheRadar reported that VeryDarkMan’s brother, Mark Otse, spoke regarding the protest at GTBank scheduled for Monday, May 5.
Following the arrest of VDM, plans for a mass protest involving large withdrawals of funds at the bank were organised, prompted by allegations that he was detained at the bank premises and claims that the bank was aware of the conspiracy.
