EFCC finally speaks out on VDM’s arrest, detention
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of rights activist Martin ‘Verydarkman (VDM)’ Otse.
According to his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, EFCC operatives apprehended VDM on Friday at a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja.
His arrest and detention quickly sparked outrage across social media, with numerous public figures — including 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and musician Davido — demanding his immediate release.
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On Monday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale told BBC News Pidgin that the agency was indeed behind VDM’s arrest and also provided the reason for his detention.
He further stated that the EFCC has a duty to safeguard the identities and interests of the individuals who filed the complaints.
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Mr Oyewale said,
We arrested him (VDM) to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners. We will release him once he meets the bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible. We are law-abiding.
Meanwhile, a group of youths staged a protest in the early hours of Monday in Abuja to oppose VDM’s arrest.
The demonstrators, holding placards with different messages, gathered in front of the GTBank headquarters in the capital.
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