Controversial online commentator Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following his arrest by the Nigeria Police Force.
VDM was taken into custody on Friday at a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja, reportedly in connection with his recent online outcry over alleged unauthorized transactions on his mother’s account. His outspoken criticism of the bank gained significant traction on social media prior to his arrest.
Human rights lawyer Barrister Deji Adeyanju confirmed the development on X (formerly Twitter). “JUST IN: VDM arrested by the police at GTB. Spoke to them before he was arrested. This is absolutely unacceptable. Demanding accountability is not a crime,” he wrote.
In another update, Adeyanju disclosed that VDM was not alone when the arrest occurred. “A team of policemen arrested VDM at GTB. He was arrested with his friend C Park but they left his mom alone,” he said.
Later, Adeyanju provided further details, revealing that VDM had been transferred to EFCC custody. “VDM DETAINED AT EFCC: Our lawyers led by the Head of our firm @Marvin_Omorogbe just met VDM’s friend who was arrested together with him in EFCC custody. VDM refused to come out of the cell; that he won’t see anyone,” he posted.
He also alleged that GTBank played a role in facilitating the arrest. “VDM was locked inside the GTB exit door for over 5mins to enable EFCC arrest him and his friend. We will be taking legal actions against GTB for the inhumane treatment matted out to our client,” the lawyer said.
As of the time this report was filed, neither the EFCC, GTBank, nor the police had released an official statement regarding the arrest or possible charges.
