The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced the release of popular social media activist, Martins Innocent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), on administrative bail.
VDM was arrested over the weekend at a GTBank branch in Abuja, where he had gone to inquire about an unauthorized loan allegedly linked to his mother’s account. Eyewitnesses claimed he was blindfolded and assaulted by security operatives during the arrest, sparking widespread outrage.
Public speculation has linked his arrest to powerful individuals allegedly targeting him over his outspoken online criticisms. However, the EFCC stated on Tuesday that the arrest was based on “grave allegations of financial malfeasance,” backed by multiple petitions.
According to the EFCC, VDM had ignored several invitations to appear for questioning, prompting the agency to obtain a court order allowing them to detain him beyond the constitutionally stipulated 24 hours.
“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated,” the statement read. “He has been offered administrative bail and will be released upon meeting the conditions.”
The agency urged the public to refrain from making assumptions about its motives, emphasizing that it is committed to carrying out its duties without bias. It also assured that charges will be filed once investigations are complete.
VDM is currently working to meet the conditions for his release. Meanwhile, calls for his freedom have continued to mount, with support coming from both local and international voices.
