Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), is back in the news — this time, in EFCC custody. Here are five key things we know so far:
- EFCC Confirms Arrest: The EFCC confirmed VDM’s arrest in Abuja following multiple petitions filed against him. According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the agency is acting on allegations from various complainants.
- Controversy Around GTBank Incident: VDM was reportedly arrested outside a GTBank branch while accompanying his mother. His legal team says EFCC operatives picked him up inside the bank premises without explaining the exact offense.
- Allegation: Cyberstalking: The arrest warrant was signed by Chief Magistrate Njideka Iloanya Duru over alleged cyberstalking. However, the EFCC has not provided specific details about the case.
- Public Outcry and Celeb Reactions: The #FreeVDM hashtag has flooded social media. Davido publicly called for his release, while Peter Obi criticized the arrest method, likening it to a kidnapping. Activist Omoyele Sowore says it's an attempt to silence VDM.
- Not His First Arrest: VDM has a history of controversial arrests. From defamation allegations involving Mercy Chinwo to past detentions over police impersonation and money-spraying videos, he remains a polarizing voice in Nigeria's online activism space.
As the pressure mounts online, many await the EFCC’s next move. Will VDM be granted bail or face fresh court battles?
