The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of Martins Innocent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following several petitions accusing him of serious financial misconduct.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commission revealed that Otse had been granted administrative bail and would be released once he met the required conditions. The EFCC explained that Otse repeatedly failed to respond to formal invitations sent to his known addresses and communication channels, leading to his eventual arrest.
The agency emphasized that the allegations made against him involve significant financial crimes and are being thoroughly investigated. A valid court-issued Remand Order was obtained to legally detain him during the ongoing investigation.
According to the EFCC, “Martins Innocent Otse was invited in connection with multiple petitions alleging financial irregularities. Despite numerous attempts to reach him, he failed to respond, prompting lawful enforcement action. While the Commission is aware of his public criticisms, these were not the reason for his arrest. A separate agency will address those remarks if necessary.”
The EFCC stressed its legal right to detain individuals under investigation and assured the public that Otse would be released once he satisfies his bail terms. It urged Nigerians to allow the Commission to carry out its duties impartially and stated that charges would be filed once the investigation is complete.
However, human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, who represents Otse, raised concerns on Monday after visiting him at the EFCC’s Abuja office. Adeyanju claimed that officials told him no formal petition had been submitted against Otse, questioning the legal basis for his detention.
In a statement posted online, Adeyanju said, “I just left VDM at the EFCC. We’ve asked repeatedly, but the Commission maintains there’s no petition against him. We still don’t understand the reason for his arrest.”
Otse, known for his outspoken social commentary and criticisms of public figures, was reportedly arrested at a Guarantee Trust Bank branch in Abuja. His lawyer described the action as unlawful and called for his immediate release.
The case has sparked public outcry, with the hashtag Free VDM trending across Nigerian social media. Civil rights groups, including the Public Interest Lawyers League (PILL), have condemned the arrest and detention, describing them as unjust and a threat to freedom of expression.
