Popular Nigerian activist and social media influencer, Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), days after his arrest sparked outrage across the country.
VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed his release during a phone interview on Monday, bringing some relief to his supporters who had been demanding his freedom.
The activist was arrested last Friday in Abuja by EFCC operatives. His sudden detention quickly became a major talking point on social media, with thousands of Nigerians, including top celebrities and political figures, weighing in.
Among those who spoke out in support of VDM were former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his Labour Party rival, Peter Obi, and music star Davido. All three called for his immediate release and condemned the actions of the anti-graft agency.
By Monday morning, the EFCC officially acknowledged that they had indeed arrested VDM. Speaking to the press, the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, stated that the agency detained the activist to investigate several petitions filed against him by unnamed individuals.
According to Oyewale, “We arrested him to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners. We will release him once he meets the bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible.” He added that the EFCC has a duty to protect the identities and interests of those who filed the complaints.
The exact nature of the allegations against VDM has not been made public, but Oyewale’s comments suggest the matter is now being prepared for legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, VDM’s arrest triggered street protests in Abuja. Early on Monday, a group of young Nigerians gathered in the capital to demand his release. The demonstrators carried placards with messages such as “Justice for VeryDarkMan” and “Activism is not a crime.” They described his arrest as an abuse of power and an attempt to silence his outspoken views on social issues.
VDM is well known for using his social media platforms to speak out against injustice, corruption, and societal ills. His bold approach and fearless commentary have earned him both loyal supporters and fierce critics.
This is not the first time the activist has found himself in trouble with authorities. In the past, his outspoken posts have drawn attention from law enforcement and sparked public debate. However, this latest arrest marks the most high-profile confrontation he has faced so far.
His release has been welcomed by many who see him as a voice for ordinary Nigerians, particularly the youth, who often feel neglected by those in power. On social media, hashtags like #FreeVeryDarkMan and #JusticeForVDM trended for hours after the news of his arrest broke.
As the EFCC prepares to take the case to court, all eyes will be on how the legal battle unfolds. For now, VDM is a free man — but the controversy surrounding his arrest has only deepened the national conversation about freedom of speech, the role of social media in activism, and the powers of law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.
