The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sparked controversy after denying reports and social media posts that it had explained why Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was arrested.
On Monday, May 5, 2025, the anti-graft agency debunked screenshots of a BBC Pidgin article and a viral tweet by journalist Rufai Oseni as “FAKE NEWS” on its official X handle, which claimed VDM’s arrest was confirmed by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale due to multiple petitions.
The EFCC did not offer an alternative explanation for the arrest, but stated that the online statements were not commissioned-approved.
The public has been left confused by this denial, especially since initial reports indicated that the EFCC was holding VDM due to allegations related to multiple petitions about cyberstalking and online misconduct.
A fresh development has emerged in the case of VDM, with widespread protests and demands for the activist’s immediate release. On Monday, a demonstration was led by popular influencer Jojooflele in Abuja’s Wuse area, where supporters called for justice and transparency in VDM’s detention.
VDM was taken into custody on May 2 at a GTBank branch in Abuja, where he was supporting his mother in resolving unauthorized account deductions, with his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, claiming the arrest was politically motivated due to the activist’s vocal stance against corruption and abuse of power.
The situation has become even more unclear, with critics accusing the EFCl of lacking transparency and accountability in its handling of the matter.
As of press time, the EFCC has not confirmed or denied whether VeryDarkMan is still in custody, nor has it specified the exact charges against him, raising more questions than answers.
