VeryDarkMan arrested by EFCC over multiple petitions

VeryDarkMan, the outspoken Nigerian social media activist whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, in a shocking turn of events, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The news, confirmed by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale in an interview with BBC News Pidgin, has sent shockwaves across Nigeria, igniting debates about freedom of speech and the use of state power to silence critics.

VeryDarkMan was taken into custody on Thursday, May 2, 2025, following what the EFCC describes as “multiple petitions” filed against him. Oyewale clarified that the activist’s arrest stems from complaints by various individuals, though he declined to confirm whether the case is directly linked to Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB).

“We arrested him to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners,” Oyewale stated, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to protecting complainants.

The EFCC has revealed plans to arraign VeryDarkMan soon, with Oyewale noting that the activist will be released once he meets bail conditions.

“We will take the case to court as soon as possible; we are law-abiding,” he added.

However, the arrest has sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians questioning the motives behind what appears to be a targeted operation.

VeryDarkMan’s arrest

The circumstances surrounding VeryDarkMan’s arrest have raised eyebrows. According to the Take It Back Movement, a human rights group advocating for his release, the activist was apprehended shortly after visiting a GTBank branch in Area 3, Garki, Abuja. VeryDarkMan had gone to the bank with his mother and an associate to address unauthorized deductions from his mother’s account. CCTV footage of the arrest, now viral on social media, shows the moment operatives swooped in, fueling allegations of a premeditated crackdown.

In a strongly worded press release, the Take It Back Movement, led by Lagos State Coordinator Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek (Scotty Aluta), condemned the arrest as “unlawful” and accused both the EFCC and GTBank of complicity. The group described VeryDarkMan as a vocal critic of corruption and injustice, suggesting his detention is an attempt to silence his activism. “This arrest appears premeditated and raises serious questions about abuse of power,” the statement read.

Adding to the controversy, the group revealed a disturbing detail: VeryDarkMan’s mother, who was with him at the time of the arrest, has since gone missing. Her whereabouts remain unknown, intensifying concerns about the conduct of the authorities involved. “This is a deeply troubling development that underscores the lawless conduct of the agencies,” the Take It Back Movement noted.

A history of speaking truth to power

VeryDarkMan is no stranger to controversy. Known for his unapologetic commentary on societal ills, corruption, and institutional misconduct, he has built a massive following on social media. His bold critiques have often put him at odds with powerful entities, making him a polarizing yet influential figure. The Take It Back Movement emphasized that this is not the first time VeryDarkMan has been targeted for his outspoken views, pointing to a pattern of harassment aimed at stifling dissent.

The viral CCTV footage has only amplified public anger, with hashtags calling for VeryDarkMan’s release trending online. Supporters argue that his arrest is part of a broader effort to suppress voices that challenge the status quo in Nigeria. As the case unfolds, all eyes are on the EFCC and the courts, with many demanding transparency and justice.

The detention of VeryDarkMan raises critical questions about the balance between accountability and the protection of free speech in Nigeria. For now, the activist’s fate hangs in the balance, and the nation waits to see whether this is a legitimate investigation or an attempt to silence a fearless critic.