The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained that the arrest and detention of social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), followed allegations of financial crime.
EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale clarified that Otse was taken into custody after repeatedly ignoring invitations sent through his known addresses and communication channels.
The EFCC disclosed that it acted within the confines of the law and has secured a remand order to detain him pending fulfilment of his bail conditions.
“Martins Innocent Otse was invited by the Commission in connection with a series of petitions bordering on alleged financial crimes. He refused to honour these invitations, prompting lawful steps to ensure his appearance. The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance, which cannot be ignored,” the EFCC stated
The Commission also addressed speculation that Otse’s arrest was due to his relentless online attacks against the EFCC and other institutions.
While acknowledging what it termed “unguarded attacks” on its operations by the influencer, the Commission denied that the criticisms influenced VDM’s arrest.
“Such conduct is condemnable, but his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them independently,” the statement noted
Otse’s detention triggered protests in Abuja on Monday, with angry youths rallying at the GTBank branch in Area 3, Garki, where he was reportedly arrested on Friday, May 2.
The demonstrators, carrying placards that read “Free VeryDarkMan Now” and “VDM Voice of the Voiceless”, demanded his immediate release and vowed to escalate the protest to the National Human Rights Commission in Maitama.
The arrest came a day after VDM accused GTBank of fraudulently approving a loan using his mother’s National Identification Number (NIN) without her consent.
The EFCC clarified that the case is unrelated to GTBank and stated that the complaints came from different persons on issues of alleged cyberstalking and financial misconduct.
“We appreciate the interest of Nigerians in our operations. The passion, enthusiasm, and torrential reactions to all of our activities are welcome. However, insinuations about our motives should not continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour.” the Commission added
The Commission reiterated that once investigations are concluded, Otse will be formally charged in court.
