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| Martins “VeryDarkMan” Otse detained by EFCC in Abuja |
Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has won a court order to keep social media activist Martins Vincent Otse—better known as VeryDarkMan—in custody. The decision comes as agents probe allegations of cyberstalking and related offences under the Cybercrimes Act.
Otse was arrested on Friday at a GTBank branch in Wuse, Abuja. Eyewitnesses say EFCC operatives, backed by officers from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, moved in as he left his teller’s window. He has since been remanded while investigators gather evidence.
His detention sparked a swell of online protest. By Monday, the hashtag #FreeVDM had trended across X, Instagram, and Facebook. Many Nigerians argue the move targets Otse’s outspoken criticism of public officials. Others call for calm and a fair legal process.
Otse rose to fame in 2022 for his hard-hitting videos on governance, rights abuses, and alleged financial misdeeds by public figures. He commands over 1.2 million followers on Instagram and 800,000 on X. His sudden rise made him friends—from some human-rights groups—to foes among those he has named in exposés.
In March 2024, he faced his first arrest on cyberbullying charges. He spent two weeks in custody before release. A second detention in June 2024 ended in no formal charges. Otse and his lawyers say those moves seemed meant to cow his criticism.
An EFCC spokesperson told The Guardian Nigeria the remand order lets agents “complete our investigation and file appropriate charges.” Sources say offences may include cyberstalking, unauthorized data access, and online harassment.
Legal experts note the Cybercrimes Act allows up to seven years’ jail for serious breaches. Otse could face multiple counts if the EFCC proves its case. He is due to appear before a Federal High Court in Abuja within 14 days of detention.
Within hours of the court’s ruling, protests sprang up online and at select Lagos and Abuja landmarks. At GTBank’s Abuja head office, about 50 youths held placards calling for Otse’s “immediate release.” At the National Assembly, some lawmakers urged the EFCC to respect free speech.
Prominent activist Deji Adeyanju, Otse’s counsel, dismissed the charges as “thinly veiled attempts to silence a key critic.” He said legal filings will challenge the remand’s legality. Opponents of Otse’s style, however, point to petitions from private citizens accusing him of defamation and harassment.
Legal Scholar, Prof. Amina Bello:
“This case tests the balance between fighting online crime and protecting free speech. We must ensure fair trial rights for all.”
Human-Rights Group, Civic Voice Nigeria:
“Activists face growing pressure. We call on the EFCC to be transparent. Charges should be public, evidence shown, and court dates set without delay.”
Government Spokesperson, Ministry of Information:
“The rule of law guides us. No one is above the law. We urge patience while investigations proceed.”
Those who back the EFCC say cybercrime is on the rise. In 2024, the agency reported over 1,500 cases of online fraud and harassment. They view Otse’s network as a possible hub for illegal schemes.
Critics counter that the EFCC rarely detains critics this way. They note most cybercrime suspects are granted bail. They argue Otse’s high profile makes him a target.
Historian Dr. Chukwuemeka Okeke says Nigeria’s history of detaining dissent suggests risk. He warns: “A democracy must guard free expression even when voices sting.”
What Comes Next
Court Hearing: Otse is set to appear before a judge on May 19.
EFCC Investigation: Agents will interview bank staff, digital-forensics experts, and alleged victims.
Public Watch: Civil-society groups will monitor the process closely.
Online Debate: #FreeVDM could shape public reaction to future cases.