US EditionNigeria: VeryDarkMan's Arrest Sparks Protests, Slammed by Former VP Atiku
- On May 2, 2025, Martins Vincent Otse, a social media personality known as VeryDarkMan, was taken into custody in Abuja, Nigeria, by the agency responsible for tackling financial and economic offenses.
- The arrest followed petitions alleging cyberstalking, while the specific details and charges remain unclear, sparking debates about the circumstances and legal process.
- Following the arrest, hundreds of youths protested on May 5 near EFCC headquarters and commercial areas in Abuja, chanting slogans and carrying placards demanding Otse's release and transparency.
- Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the detention on X, describing it as a clear example of the Tinubu administration’s misuse of authority, while supporters rally online with the hashtag #FreeVDM.
- The situation underscores persistent conflicts surrounding freedom of speech in Nigeria, highlighting the challenges of navigating law enforcement actions alongside political dissent under the current administration.
18 Articles
18 Articles
#FreeVDM: Protest erupts in Abuja over detention of social activist
A group of youths staged a protest in Abuja on Monday, demanding the immediate release of popular activist and social media influencer, Martins Otse, widely known as Very Dark Man (VDM). The demonstration began shortly after reports emerged that Otse had been arrested under unclear circumstances. According to eyewitnesses, he was taken into custody after visiting a branch of Guarantee Trust Bank in Abuja with his mother to inquire about his acco…
PILL Condemns EFCC’s Arrest, Detention of Activist Very Dark Man
The Public Interest Lawyers League (PILL) has “strongly” condemned the arrest and continued detention of social campaigner and activist, Martins Otse, popularly known as Very Dark Man (VDM), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Abdul Mahmud Esq, President, Public Interest Lawyers League (PILL),Abuja, who issued a statement Monday, also said “the arrest of Mr. Otse, reportedly without a warrant and in a manner that lacked trans…
Davido, Cubana Chief Priest, others demand VeryDarkMan’s release - NewsTmes.com.ng
Adenle Ahmed Abiola Nigerian music star Davido, celebrity bar man, Cubana Chief Priest and other Nigerians have condemned the arrest of social media influencer and activist, Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The celebrities and fans of VDM said his arrest was carried out like an “abduction”, which left many Nigerians worried, and therefore … The post Davido, Cubana Chief Priest, others demand VeryDarkMan’s release appeared first on …
EFCC clarifies VDM’s arrest and bail conditions
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that social media commentator Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), will be released once he meets the conditions of his bail. Speaking to BBC News Pidgin on Monday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the commission is not holding the activist unlawfully, stressing that his continued detention is linked solely to the status of his bail requirements. “We will release…
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