Nigerian social media personality and activist, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was arrested on Friday, May 2, 2025, by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja. The dramatic incident occurred outside a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch located in Area 3, Garki, where VDM had gone with his mother, Mrs. Blessing Otse, and associate Steven Avuara (aka C-Pack) to lodge a complaint regarding unauthorized deductions from Mrs. Otse’s account.
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that shortly after exiting the bank premises, the trio was intercepted by armed men in black, who identified themselves as EFCC officials. In a shocking development, the operatives reportedly blindfolded VDM, his mother, and Avuara, and forced them into an unmarked vehicle without presenting any arrest warrant or explanation.
While the EFCC later confirmed the arrest of Vincent Otse and Steven Avuara for what it described as “an ongoing financial investigation,” there has been no official acknowledgment or update on the whereabouts of Mrs. Blessing Otse, prompting serious concerns for her safety. Human rights advocates have criticized the operation as unlawful and excessive.
VDM’s legal team, in a statement released on Saturday morning, described the arrest as a “blatant violation of his fundamental human rights” and demanded his immediate release. They also urged the EFCC to disclose the location and condition of his mother, who they say has no involvement in the case.
“This is an abduction, not an arrest,” said one of his lawyers. “You don’t blindfold citizens, including a woman in her 60s, and whisk them away without explanation. Nigeria is a democracy, not a jungle.”
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with the hashtag #FreeVeryDarkMan trending nationwide. Supporters and civil rights organizations are calling on the EFCC, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Inspector General of Police to investigate the legality of the arrest and ensure due process is followed.
This arrest adds to a growing list of confrontations between VDM and Nigerian authorities. Known for his outspoken activism, investigative commentary, and frequent clashes with celebrities, influencers, and even political institutions, VDM has previously been detained but has continued to use his platform to advocate for transparency, accountability, and justice for the underprivileged.
As of the time of filing this report, VDM remains in EFCC custody, and there has been no verifiable contact with his mother. His legal team is reportedly preparing to file a lawsuit against the EFCC for unlawful detention and violation of constitutional rights.
