Popular social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after spending five days in detention.
The news of his release was confirmed by former presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who shared the update via his X (formerly Twitter) handle.
Sowore wrote:
“Thanks to the unrelenting efforts of all, @thatverydarkman has been released from unjust detention at the @officialEFCC! He is with his ebullient lawyer, @adeyanjudeji.”
VeryDarkMan’s release follows intense public outcry and advocacy from fans, legal activists, and civil society groups who demanded his immediate freedom.
Background
VDM was arrested by EFCC operatives on Friday, May 3, 2025, over allegations bordering on cyberstalking and online harassment. A source close to the commission revealed to Vanguard that:
“We picked him up based on several complaints that he used his social media platforms to harass, insult, and intimidate individuals — actions that may contravene the Cybercrimes Act of 2015.”
Although the EFCC has yet to issue an official statement regarding the conditions of his release or whether charges will be filed, the development has stirred mixed reactions online — with some users praising the advocacy that led to his freedom, while others call for a more cautious and respectful use of social media platforms.
As of now, VeryDarkMan has not issued a formal statement about his arrest or release.
Developing story…
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