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| VeryDarkMan Arrest Outside GTBank Branch |
On May 2, 2025, the EFCC took social critic Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, into custody. The agency said it got several petitions against him from different people. Spokesman Dele Oyewale spoke to BBC News Pidgin about the case. He said the EFCC will charge him to court soon once his bail terms are met.
VDM’s arrest came after he visited a GTBank branch in Garki, Abuja, with his mother. He went there to clear up an alleged deduction from her account. EFCC operatives acted near the bank exit and took him away. Witnesses later shared CCTV clips online.
The EFCC said it must respond to complaints lodged by those petitioners. Oyewale said the petitions spanned several claims of harassment and misconduct. He said the agency has a duty to protect complainants’ rights. He added that they will arraign Otse once bail conditions are met.
Reports said some petitions alleged cyberstalking and online harassment by VDM. A Vanguard source noted these actions may breach the Cybercrimes Act of 2015. The EFCC gave no names of petitioners to protect privacy. The agency said it will uphold the law without fear or favor.
VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, called the arrest unwarranted and heavy‑handed. He said no clear offence was shown before the arrest. He warned the EFCC to honor Otse’s rights under Nigeria’s constitution. Legal experts say due process must guide every arrest in a democracy.
GTBank denied any role in the arrest inside its premises. The bank released CCTV videos to show the arrest occurred outside the lobby. It urged a full, open probe to clear its name and uphold transparency. GTBank said it respects all lawful requests from security agencies.
Protesters soon gathered at GTBank’s Abuja branch, calling for VDM’s release. They held placards that read “Free VDM” and “Protect Our Voices.” Some chanted slogans about free speech and justice. Police later managed the crowd without any major clashes.
Celebrities joined the outcry online. Singer Davido said he saw real change in VDM’s voice and urged action. Former vice‑presidential candidate Peter Obi warned against tactics that feel like abductions. Afrobeat artist Seun Kuti blamed powerful church figures and banks for silencing critics.
On social media, some users asked why the EFCC handles petitions not tied to big fraud. Others said the agency should stick to tracking stolen funds. A Lagos‑based commentator wondered if cyberstalking falls under EFCC’s mandate. The debate showed wide public split on the topic.
VDM is no stranger to court action. In May 2024, he faced cyberstalking charges at the Federal High Court, Abuja. He pleaded not guilty and secured bail after two weeks. In November 2024, he faced impersonation charges but was again freed on bail. Critics say his past marks him as a target.
Under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act, online harassment is an offence. Lawyers say the law aims to curb threats and hate online. It covers stalking, defamation, and hate speech. Legal counsel note the act requires clear proof before any arrest or charge.
The EFCC’s core mission is to fight economic crimes, from money fraud to asset recovery. In 2024, it recovered over $28 million in one probe into a poverty fund scandal. That effort earned praise from global bodies and the government. But critics warn against overreach into civil rights.
Human rights groups have urged the EFCC to respect free speech. They argue social critics must still answer charges fairly. They called on the agency to be transparent and follow court orders. A Lagos NGO said public trust hinges on fair, open processes.
Some court watchers note EFCC’s fast timeline for arraignment may raise concerns. The agency has seven days to file charges under law. If it misses that window, the court can order release. Legal scholars say this protects detainees from indefinite hold.
Political analysts see VDM’s case as part of a wider debate on online dissent. Social media has become a key space for critique in Nigeria. Activists warn that punishing online speech can chill public debate. They call for clear rules that balance rights and security.
Some experts argue EFCC should build a special desk for digital crimes only. That unit could vet petitions before field action. It might help stop wrongful arrests and speed real probes. Other agencies, like the police or DSS, could then handle non‑financial offences.
Civil society leaders want the EFCC to share petition details in court. They say that helps public oversight and trust. Others say petitioners should also face scrutiny if they misuse the system. They worry false claims can harm innocent voices.
Abuja lawyers plan to file a motion for quick bail hearing. They want to see the petition papers and the court order. They expect the judge to review the evidence within days. If solid proof exists, they say Mr Otse should defend himself in open court.
On May 6, 2025, the court set a fresh date for arraignment. The terms of bail include refraining from posting on social media about complainants. Legal watchers say these bail terms are common in defamation cases. They warn against penalizing speech beyond court orders.
This case raises key questions about free speech in a digital era. It tests how Nigeria handles online activists and public figures. It also probes EFCC’s role beyond money crimes. The outcome may set a guide for future cyber petitions.
As VeryDarkMan waits to face court, debate continues online and offline. Some call for calm and faith in the courts. Others demand broader review of cyber laws and EFCC powers. What’s your view on this balance of rights and security? Let’s discuss in the comments.