Activist VeryDarkMan to Be Released Today Amid Growing Backlash Over EFCC Arrest.
Social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), is set to be released today after being arrested last Friday by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), He is expected to be formally charged on Thursday.
VDM’s arrest sparked widespread protests in Abuja on Monday, with youths taking to the streets in Wuse and other parts of the city, demanding his immediate release and decrying the lack of due process.
The EFCC confirmed that charges are being prepared against him, citing multiple petitions involving cyberstalking and related offences. However, the agency acknowledged he has not yet been charged in court.
Public Outcry and Political Condemnation
The arrest has drawn condemnation from a wide range of voices, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, human rights lawyer Richard Akinnola, and celebrities Davido and Cubana Chief Priest.
PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor has criticised the federal government’s silence, blaming it for fueling public unrest. He argued that timely communication could have prevented the protests.
“Had there been timely communication regarding the reasons for his arrest, I doubt we would have witnessed the current protests,” Osadolor said.
“It’s disheartening to witness soldiers confronting civilians in such a manner in the 21st century.”
He also emphasized the importance of political awareness and voter education ahead of the 2027 elections, urging Nigerian youths to prioritize economic independence and critical thinking.
Atiku: “We Must Resist State-Sponsored Tyranny”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described VDM’s detention as a “blatant abuse of power,” citing a growing trend of authoritarianism under the Tinubu administration.
“This latest episode is part of a disturbing pattern,” Atiku stated. “The Tinubu regime’s relentless assault on the fundamental freedoms of Nigerians must be stopped.”
Atiku also pointed out the double standards in law enforcement, where political allies are often shielded despite credible allegations, while critics are swiftly detained.
Akinnola: Detention Beyond 24 Hours is Illegal
In a Facebook post, legal expert Richard Akinnola stressed that VDM’s continued detention violated his constitutional rights.
“I’m not a fan of the guy, but that is immaterial. Any abridgment of rights should be condemned. He ought to be granted bail or charged to court.”
Celebrities Rally for VDM’s Release
Celebrities including Davido and Cubana Chief Priest took to social media to demand VDM’s release, describing the arrest as resembling an “abduction.”
“The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging… makes one want to do more for the masses,” Davido posted on X.
Cubana Chief Priest echoed the sentiment on Instagram, writing:
“The Voice of the Voiceless is missing. The Hope of the Hopeless is nowhere to be found. Peace dey cry, street dey call. Free VDM now.”
Peter Obi: Arrest Lacked Transparency, Resembled Abduction
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi also condemned the arrest, warning that the lack of transparency erodes public trust in law enforcement.
“If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.”
The Watch will continue to monitor developments around VDM’s legal case and the broader implications for civil liberties in Nigeria.
