Abuja, May 2, 2025
Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), a prominent Nigerian social media influencer and activist, was arrested by the Nigerian Police Force on Friday at a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Area 3, Abuja. The arrest followed VDM’s public criticism of the bank over alleged unauthorized deductions from his mother’s account, which he claimed were linked to loan repayments she never authorized.
According to reports, VDM visited the GTBank branch alongside his mother and a friend, identified as C Park, to demand an explanation for multiple debits from her account. In a social media post that went viral, VDM stated, “Myself and my mom just arrived at GTBank to get an explanation for the constant debit from her account by GTBank in the name of loan repayments that she never took. We have requested her bank statements so we know when the debiting started. So far, in this year alone, there have been more than seven debits on loan repayments.” He noted that bank staff were cooperating, but the situation escalated, leading to his arrest.
VDM’s lawyer, Barrister Deji Adeyanju, confirmed the incident, stating, “VDM was arrested by the police at GTB. Spoke to them before he was arrested. This is absolutely unacceptable. Demanding accountability is not a crime.” Adeyanju vowed to pursue legal action against GTBank if VDM is not released promptly. In a follow-up statement, he clarified that VDM and C Park were detained, while VDM’s mother was left at the scene.
The arrest has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the motives behind the police action. Posts on X expressed frustration, with one user stating, “I tire for this country. Someone came to complain, instead of them to investigate, they are ordering his arrest.” Others called for GTBank to address the allegations transparently, emphasizing that VDM’s arrest raises concerns about consumer rights and freedom of expression.
As of Friday evening, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command had not issued an official statement confirming the arrest or detailing the charges. Sources indicate that GTBank initiated the arrest following VDM’s public complaints, which the bank may have perceived as defamatory or disruptive. However, the lack of clarity from both the police and GTBank has fueled speculation and public discontent.
VDM, known for his outspoken critiques of public figures and institutions, has faced legal scrutiny before. In March 2025, a court issued a bench warrant for his arrest over alleged defamation of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, a case that remains ongoing. His latest arrest underscores the challenges faced by activists using social media to demand accountability in Nigeria, where such actions often lead to legal repercussions.
The incident has reignited debates about banking transparency and consumer protection in Nigeria. Financial experts note that unauthorized debits are a recurring issue, often linked to systemic errors or fraudulent activities, and call for stronger regulatory oversight. Meanwhile, VDM’s supporters are rallying online, demanding his immediate release and a thorough investigation into the allegations against GTBank.
GTBank has yet to respond publicly to the incident. As the situation develops, all eyes are on the Nigerian Police Force and the bank to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding VDM’s arrest. For now, the influencer’s detention remains a flashpoint in the ongoing struggle for accountability and consumer rights in Nigeria.
