EFCC Arrests Social Media Activist VeryDarkMan Over Multiple Petitions, Plans to File Charges

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of popular social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following multiple petitions alleging cyberstalking and online harassment. The EFCC is preparing to formally charge him in court.

Arrest and Allegations

VDM was apprehended on May 2, 2025, shortly after visiting a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja with his mother to address concerns over unauthorized deductions from her account. His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, reported that VDM was taken into custody without immediate disclosure of the charges against him. An arrest warrant issued by Magistrate Njideka Iloanya-Duru cited allegations of cyberstalking under the Cybercrimes Act of 2015 .

EFCC sources indicated that the arrest was based on several complaints accusing VDM of using his social media platforms to harass, insult, and intimidate individuals . The identities of the complainants have not been disclosed.

Legal Proceedings

The EFCC is currently seeking a warrant from a Magistrate Court in Abuja to detain VDM pending his arraignment on multiple charges of alleged financial crimes . The specific details of these charges have not been made public.

Reactions and Controversy

VDM's arrest has sparked criticism from human rights organizations and public figures. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) condemned the arrest as unlawful and arbitrary, accusing the EFCC of overstepping its mandate and acting as enforcers for commercial banks rather than upholding citizens' rights .

Comedian and former Big Brother Naija star Deeone shared a video alleging that a close ally of VDM filed a petition against him, leading to his arrest. Deeone expressed appreciation to the EFCC for taking action .

VDM's legal team continues to seek clarity on the specific allegations and is working to secure his release. As of now, the EFCC has not provided further details regarding the charges or the timeline for his arraignment.