The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of popular Nigerian social media personality Martins Innocent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following a series of petitions accusing him of financial malfeasance. The announcement, made via a statement on Tuesday, has ignited a firestorm of reactions across social media, with the hashtag #FreeVDM trending as supporters rally for his release.
According to the EFCC, VeryDarkMan was invited multiple times to address the allegations but failed to honor the invitations sent through his known addresses and communication channels. The agency emphasized that the arrest was strictly based on the petitions, which involve “grave allegations of financial crimes,” and not a response to Otse’s well-documented criticism of the EFCC’s operations. “While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks,” the statement clarified, adding that other law enforcement agencies may investigate his public statements separately.
The EFCC, Nigeria’s leading anti-corruption body, stated that it obtained a lawful Remand Order to hold Otse in custody. However, he has been offered administrative bail and will be released once he meets the necessary conditions. The agency urged Nigerians to allow it to carry out its mandate “without fear or favor,” promising to file charges once investigations are concluded.
The arrest has sparked widespread debate, with supporters of VeryDarkMan launching a vocal campaign for his release. A striking image circulating online shows the EFCC logo—a white eagle against a red background with the Nigerian coat of arms—alongside protest graphics demanding “Free VDM.” The campaign highlights Otse’s role as a vocal critic of corruption, with many arguing that his arrest may be an attempt to silence dissent.
This development comes amid heightened scrutiny of the EFCC’s operations in Nigeria, a country grappling with systemic corruption and economic challenges. Just weeks ago, the agency made headlines for arresting Nigerian musician E-Money over allegations of Naira abuse, reflecting its ongoing crackdown on financial crimes. However, public trust in the EFCC remains mixed, with some praising its efforts and others accusing it of selective prosecution.
As investigations into VeryDarkMan’s case continue, the #FreeVDM movement shows no signs of slowing down, raising broader questions about the balance between anti-corruption efforts and freedom of expression in Nigeria. More details are expected as the situation unfolds.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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