The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of popular social media influencer and rights activist, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over allegations of financial misconduct.
In a statement released on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, the Commission revealed that Otse was apprehended after failing to honour multiple invitations regarding serious petitions against him.
The EFCC noted that the allegations involve financial offences deemed too weighty to ignore. “Despite several invitations sent to his known addresses and communication channels, Otse refused to show up,” the statement read.
According to the anti-graft agency, Otse is being investigated based on numerous petitions involving financial crimes, and his arrest was in line with its constitutional mandate to curb economic and financial crimes.
Reacting to public criticism trailing the arrest, the EFCC clarified that the activist had been granted administrative bail and would be released upon meeting the conditions.
“The EFCC has the legal authority to detain any suspect during the course of investigation. In Otse’s case, the necessary remand order was secured from a competent court. He has now been offered bail,” the Commission stated.
The EFCC also addressed claims that the arrest was a reaction to Otse’s past criticisms of the Commission, saying his detention was not influenced by any personal attacks.
It assured Nigerians that due process would be followed and that formal charges would be filed as soon as investigations are concluded.
The agency urged the public to allow it to carry out its duties without distraction, stating: “The EFCC welcomes public interest in its activities but urges citizens to avoid unnecessary assumptions and allow the law to take its course.”
