By Ayomide Otitoju
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of renowned rights activist and social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The anti-corruption body announced the arrest on its official social media handle on Tuesday, stating that Otse was detained following multiple petitions accusing him of serious financial misconduct.
According to the EFCC, Otse had ignored several invitations to appear before the agency, despite being contacted through his known communication channels. The statement clarified that the petitions against Otse involved allegations of financial malfeasance that the Commission could not disregard.
“The EFCC invited Martins Vincent Otse in connection with various petitions concerning alleged financial crimes. Despite multiple invitations sent to his known addresses, he refused to comply,” the Commission said.
The agency further defended its actions, stating that contrary to public outcry, it has the legal right to detain Otse. However, the EFCC noted that Otse had been offered administrative bail and would be released upon fulfilling the necessary conditions.
While acknowledging the public’s interest in the case, the EFCC urged Nigerians to allow the investigation to proceed without interference. “The EFCC is mandated to investigate economic crimes and will continue its work impartially. Once investigations are complete, appropriate charges will be filed,” the statement concluded.
The arrest sparked protests in Abuja on Monday, with demonstrators marching from the EFCC headquarters to the location of his reported detention. Protesters, including many youths, held signs demanding Otse’s release and questioning the involvement of political figures.
Several prominent figures have condemned the arrest, including former presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP). Both leaders criticized the detention as a form of political repression, with Obi likening Otse’s arrest to an abduction.
Nigerian music star Davido also expressed support for Otse, calling for his immediate release, while acknowledging the widespread public backing for the activist.
