EFCC Statement on Continued Detention of Martins Vincent Otse -Verydarkman, sparks Outrage
posted 6th May 2025
EFCC Statement on Continued Detention of Martins Vincent Otse -Verydarkman, sparks Outrage
Nigeria – 6 May 2025
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has faced mounting criticism following the continued detention of Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), a social media influencer and activist. The EFCC’s statement, released on X, detailed that Otse was invited for questioning due to multiple petitions alleging financial crimes but failed to honour several invitations. The agency secured a remand order and offered administrative bail, which Otse has yet to meet.
The EFCC emphasised that Otse’s detention is unrelated to his vocal criticism of the agency’s operations, describing such attacks as “condemnable” but separate from the allegations of financial malfeasance. The agency urged Nigerians to allow it to carry out its duties without speculation about its motives, promising to file charges once investigations are complete.
The detention has ignited a firestorm of reactions on X, with many Nigerians questioning the EFCC’s transparency and motives. Users like @Silvah101 accused the EFCC of attempting to “silence” Otse, claiming his arrest stems from his knowledge of sensitive information that threatens the agency. Others, including @Edesiri_56, labelled the EFCC as complicit in Nigeria’s corruption problem, arguing it targets whistleblowers rather than corrupt officials.
@Fortis1o highlighted the EFCC’s alleged inaction against high-profile figures accused of stealing trillions, such as former governors and ministers, questioning why Otse is prioritised. Similarly, @Inno4Chi demanded specifics on the petitions, complainants, and bail conditions, criticising the EFCC’s vague statements and the manner of Otse’s arrest, which some described as an “abduction.”
Users like @endyy090 and @AfrobeatArena accused the EFCC of selectively ignoring petitions against politicians while swiftly acting against Otse. @Achabocrew called for clarity on the alleged offences and condemned the EFCC’s “criminal-like” tactics during the arrest.
The EFCC maintained that its actions are lawful and procedural, stressing that Otse’s detention follows due process. However, the agency’s statement has done little to quell public scepticism, with many viewing the case as part of a broader pattern of using state institutions to suppress dissent. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions between Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and public trust in government agencies.
As investigations continue, Nigerians await further details on the allegations against Otse and whether the EFCC will address the public’s demand for transparency. For now, the case remains a lightning rod for debates about justice, accountability, and the role of social media in challenging authority.
