Nigeria EFCC explains VeryDarkMan’s arrest, citing multiple petitions alleging cyberstalking, and grants administrative bail pending fulfillment of conditions.
Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), is set to be released today, May 6, 2025, after being detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) since May 2.
The EFCC confirmed his arrest, stating it was based on multiple petitions alleging cyberstalking and related offenses.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale noted that Otse was taken into custody following complaints from several individuals and emphasized that the agency plans to arraign him in court soon.
The arrest has sparked significant public backlash, with many Nigerians protesting what they perceive as an infringement on free speech.
Demonstrations have been reported in several cities, including Abuja and Lagos, where protesters are demanding his immediate release.
Prominent figures, such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have condemned the arrest, describing it as a blatant abuse of power and a threat to civil liberties.
Otse’s legal representatives, including human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, have criticized the manner of his arrest.
Adeyanju claimed that Otse was trapped inside a bank’s exit door for over five minutes, allowing EFCC operatives to arrest him—a move he described as a deliberate ploy.
While the EFCC has granted Otse administrative bail, his release is contingent upon meeting specified conditions.
The agency has secured a court order to remand him during the investigation and plans to file charges once the process is complete.
His detention has raised concerns about freedom of expression and the use of state agencies to suppress dissenting voices.
As the situation unfolds, many Nigerians are closely monitoring developments, with calls for transparency and adherence to the rule of law in handling the case.
