The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially confirmed the arrest of Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), after earlier denying reports of his detention.
The arrest reportedly followed multiple petitions submitted by individuals alleging financial misconduct and other grievances against the activist.
Although the EFCC initially dismissed reports of the arrest as false through its official social media accounts, the agency later issued a statement on Tuesday, May 6, confirming that Otse had been taken into custody.
According to the EFCC, Otse failed to respond to several invitations sent to him through known addresses and communication channels.
“The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which the Commission cannot ignore,” the EFCC stated.
The Commission acknowledged Otse’s frequent public criticism of its operations but clarified that the arrest was unrelated to his statements.
“The EFCC has the lawful right to detain Mr. Otse, as it would any suspect under investigation. An appropriate Remand Order was obtained,” the statement read.
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The anti-graft agency confirmed that administrative bail had been offered and that Otse would be released upon meeting the conditions set.
“We appreciate the interest of Nigerians in our operations. However, unfounded insinuations about our motives should cease. The EFCC must be allowed to carry out its lawful duties without fear or favour,” the statement concluded, noting that formal charges would follow the conclusion of investigations.
Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan, is a social media activist known for his vocal stance against corruption and impunity in Nigeria.
He has built a reputation for confronting public officials and high-profile figures accused of misconduct.
Otse has been arrested multiple times due to his activism and currently faces pending legal cases in various Nigerian courts. Supporters, including public figures like actress Rita Edochie, have praised him as a fearless advocate who “always stands for the truth.”