Popular Nigerian social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The news of his arrest broke on Friday evening. It was confirmed by activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju in a post on his official Facebook page.
Background: Arrest linked to bank dispute
Earlier reports pointed to a brewing dispute between VDM and Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB). According to sources, VDM had called out the bank after alleging that unauthorised transactions were made from his mother’s account.
In response to his public criticism, reports suggest that GTB may have played a role in alerting the EFCC, leading to his arrest. This claim, however, has not yet been confirmed by the bank.
Lawyer provides update from custody
In an update on Friday night, Adeyanju shared more details about the arrest. He revealed that a team of lawyers from his firm, led by lawyer Marvin Omorogbe, visited the EFCC office where VDM was being held.
The legal team met with a friend of VDM, who was arrested alongside the influencer. However, they were unable to meet VDM himself. According to Adeyanju, VDM refused to leave his cell or meet with anyone.
“VDM refused to come out of the cell; he said he won’t see anyone,” Adeyanju wrote on Facebook. He also described how VDM was held in the GTB exit door area for over five minutes to allow EFCC officials to arrest both him and his friend.
Legal action looms against GTB
Adeyanju did not mince words about his displeasure with the situation. He described the arrest as a case of “inhumane treatment” and vowed that legal action would be taken against GTB.
“We will be taking legal actions against GTB for the inhumane treatment meted out to our client,” Adeyanju wrote in his post.
He stressed that his legal team would pursue all available options to ensure that VDM’s rights are protected. Adeyanju’s firm has a reputation for championing human rights and defending public figures in high-profile cases.
Rising profile of VeryDarkMan
VDM has gained a massive following on social media platforms over the past few years. Known for his outspoken style, he often comments on social issues, corruption, and scandals. His videos regularly spark debate and attract thousands of views and comments.
His arrest has already triggered a wave of reactions online. Fans, followers, and fellow influencers are expressing shock and anger over the development. Some are calling for his immediate release, while others are demanding an explanation from GTB and the EFCC.
A broader conversation on free speech
This incident has also raised larger questions about free speech in Nigeria. Many observers worry that the arrest of a vocal critic like VDM sends the wrong signal. They argue that public figures should have the right to criticise institutions, including banks, without fear of arrest or harassment.
Others point out that if the EFCC was called in over public complaints, it sets a troubling precedent. They warn that such actions could silence activists, discourage whistleblowers, and limit open discussion on social media.
What happens next?
At the time of this report, neither GTB nor the EFCC has released an official statement explaining the reasons behind VDM’s arrest.
Legal experts say the next steps will depend on the charges, if any, that are filed against VDM. Adeyanju and his team have promised to keep the public updated on the case and are preparing to challenge GTB legally.
For now, VDM remains in custody, and his many supporters are waiting anxiously for more news.
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