The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has granted administrative bail to social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following his arrest on Friday, May 2, 2025. The EFCC stated that Otse was detained in connection with multiple petitions alleging serious financial misconduct.
According to an official statement released on Tuesday, the EFCC clarified that Otse had been invited for questioning regarding these allegations but failed to respond to several invitations sent through his known addresses and communication channels. The commission emphasized that the arrest was based solely on the petitions received and not influenced by Otse’s public criticisms of the agency.
The EFCC noted that it obtained a valid remand order to detain Otse during the investigation process. He has now been offered administrative bail and will be released upon fulfilling the stipulated bail conditions.
Otse, known for his outspoken commentary on social issues and government operations, was arrested at a Guaranty Trust Bank branch in Abuja, where he had gone with his mother to address complaints of unauthorized withdrawals from her account.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, representing Otse, expressed concerns over the arrest, noting that initial inquiries did not reveal any official petition against his client. However, the EFCC has since confirmed the existence of multiple petitions alleging financial malfeasance.
The EFCC has assured the public that the investigation will be conducted diligently and that charges will be filed if warranted upon its conclusion. The commission also urged the public to allow it to perform its duties without undue interference.
Sources: The Cable, Sahara Reporters, Gistreel:
