Popular social commentator and activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
VDM was seen in a vehicle beside his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, in a viral video posted on social media on Wednesday evening.
He expressed shock over the allegations of money laundering levelled against him.
“How would they level allegations of money laundering on someone who doesn’t have money?” he asked.
“I’ve done so much charity work; they wonder how, but they don’t know I use debt for charity. Anyway, we are outside… with my lawyer, of course.”
VDM’s arrest in Abuja last Friday prompted widespread outrage, with high-profile figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and music star Davido joining the call for his immediate release.
The EFCC, through its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed VDM’s arrest and disclosed that it was in response to several petitions.
While not revealing the identities of the petitioners, Oyewale emphasised the agency’s duty to protect their interests. He added that VDM would be charged in court.
The controversy triggered street protests in Abuja on Monday, as youths took to the roads with placards, condemning the activist’s detention and describing it as unlawful.
Meanwhile, VDM’s legal team has vowed to challenge the accusations in court.
