Tensions flared at a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja yesterday following the arrest of renowned social media activist and influencer, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan. The incident, which was captured in real-time by bystanders and circulated widely across social media platforms, has sparked nationwide criticism and a growing boycott movement against the financial institution.
According to multiple eyewitness reports and social media footage, VeryDarkMan visited the GTBank branch alongside his mother to resolve a lingering issue concerning unauthorized deductions from her personal bank account. Eyewitnesses claimed that the influencer requested to speak with a bank manager after his mother reportedly received poor customer service and no clear explanation for the discrepancies in her account.
What was meant to be a routine complaint reportedly took a dramatic turn when police officers stormed the bank and forcefully arrested the influencer. Onlookers claimed that the arrest was allegedly orchestrated by GTBank officials, an accusation that has not been officially confirmed but has fueled widespread anger.
Social media platforms were instantly flooded with outrage from fans, fellow activists, and civil rights groups. The hashtag #BoycottGTBank quickly began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with users calling for mass account closures and investigations into GTBank’s treatment of customers. Many accused the bank of silencing a voice that speaks out for the public, branding the arrest as an abuse of corporate influence and a threat to freedom of expression.
In response to the arrest, several Nigerians have begun sharing screenshots of their GTBank account closures and encouraging others to do the same in protest. Protesters are also demanding an official apology from the bank, the release of VeryDarkMan, and a full investigation into the events leading up to the arrest.
As of the time of this report, neither GTBank nor the Nigeria Police Force has issued an official statement regarding the incident. Efforts to reach representatives of the bank for comment have been unsuccessful.
The development comes just days after GTCO Plc, GTBank’s parent company, announced strong financial results for Q1 2025 and hosted its annual GTCO Food and Drink Festival in Lagos. While the bank continues to promote community initiatives and environmental programs like the ‘Waste for Gas’ scheme, this arrest threatens to undermine public trust and loyalty.
VeryDarkMan, known for his outspoken activism and fearless criticism of corruption and social injustice, has built a massive following online. His arrest is being seen by many as a direct attack on free speech and customer rights in Nigeria’s banking sector.
This story is still unfolding. Stay tuned for further updates as more details emerge.
