Financial crime probe or political witch-hunt? EFCC says it followed due process as Atiku, Obi, Davido demand release
By IDNN Investigative Unit
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has broken its silence over the arrest and continued detention of outspoken influencer and rights activist, Martins Vincent Otse — popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM) — triggering a national debate over the boundary between justice and political repression.
In a sharp statement on Tuesday, the EFCC confirmed that VDM was apprehended on May 2 following “serious financial crime allegations” lodged by multiple petitioners. The agency said Otse had refused to honour several invitations sent via known addresses and digital platforms, prompting lawful detention.
“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission,” the agency stated.
It emphasized that VDM’s arrest was not retaliation for his frequent public criticisms of the Commission and other authorities.
Protests Erupt, Public Figures React
VDM’s detention has triggered an outpouring of anger online and on the streets. On Monday, dozens of youths marched through Abuja — from EFCC headquarters to the site of his arrest — chanting “Free VeryDarkMan” and carrying signs questioning the role of Seyi Tinubu in the matter.
Online, the outrage went viral.
Former Vice President and PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, described the detention as “a blatant abuse of power” and called for VDM’s immediate release.
“This is political repression, now a hallmark of Tinubu’s administration,” Atiku posted on X.
Labour Party’s Peter Obi echoed those concerns, warning that the method of arrest resembled “an abduction,” stoking public fear and potentially enabling criminal impersonations of law enforcement.
Nigerian music star Davido added fuel to the fire, tweeting:
“The support I’m seeing for VDM is encouraging. FREE MY GUY.”
EFCC’s Legal Justification and Bail Conditions
In its official response, the EFCC clarified that a remand order was legally obtained, and that VDM had been offered administrative bail, pending the fulfillment of all conditions. It reaffirmed that:
“The Commission is focused on its statutory mandate and will file charges once investigations are concluded.”
While the exact nature of the allegations remains sealed, sources suggest they involve fund misappropriation and online fundraising irregularities, among other potential financial misconducts.
EFCC warned against public “insinuations” about motives, stating:
“The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour.”
Free Speech or Selective Targeting?
This case has once again raised questions about Nigeria’s climate of free speech and the shrinking space for dissent in the digital age. VDM, a fierce critic of government excesses and societal hypocrisy, has often clashed with political figures, religious bodies, and even celebrities.
His detention, critics argue, risks setting a precedent where influencers face jail time over their outspokenness — especially when they gain traction among Nigeria’s restless youth demographic.
The EFCC insists it is not targeting VDM for his activism, but for “petition-backed allegations,” which it says are too grave to ignore.
“We welcome the public’s enthusiasm and concern,” the agency concluded. “But nobody is above the law.”
As at press time, VDM remained in custody. His legal team has yet to publicly confirm if bail conditions have been met or challenged.
