EFCC clarifies VDM’s arrest and bail conditions

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that social media commentator Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), will be released once he meets the conditions of his bail.

Speaking to BBC News Pidgin on Monday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the commission is not holding the activist unlawfully, stressing that his continued detention is linked solely to the status of his bail requirements.

“We will release him if he meets his bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible,” Oyewale stated.

Oyewale further explained that VDM was arrested following multiple petitions filed by various individuals, all of whom alleged misconduct on his part. While the exact nature of the allegations has not been publicly detailed, the EFCC noted that investigations are ongoing.

When pressed to confirm whether Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) was one of the petitioners, Oyewale declined to mention any names, citing confidentiality obligations designed to protect the identities of complainants.

VDM’s arrest in Abuja by EFCC operatives has generated intense public interest and concern, particularly on social media, where many users have accused the authorities of targeting outspoken voices.

His legal counsel, Deji Adeyanju, alleged that the arrest took place within a GTBank branch, suggesting the bank’s possible complicity. However, GTBank has firmly denied involvement. In a public statement accompanied by CCTV footage, the bank clarified that the arrest did not occur on its premises and called for a fair and independent investigation.

Meanwhile, protests broke out in Abuja on Monday, as supporters of VDM gathered outside GTBank’s headquarters to demand his unconditional release.

The demonstrators, holding placards and chanting slogans, described the arrest as an infringement on the activist’s right to free speech and expression.

The EFCC, however, maintains that the arrest followed due process and that the matter will soon be presented in court.