A Catholic priest has joined the growing chorus of voices condemning the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the arrest of outspoken activist and social commentator VeryDarkMan (VDM), describing the act as “a national disgrace” and “an insult to justice and human dignity.” His message, which appeared in the comments section of a trending social media post, has since gone viral.
The priest, identified as Reverend Father Kelvin Ugwu, criticised the EFCC for resorting to what he termed a “show of force” instead of using civil protocols such as a formal invitation. He questioned why an unarmed citizen who has always responded to public matters openly and transparently should be subjected to a humiliating public arrest. “Was it necessary to treat him like a common criminal?” he asked.
What pained the priest most, as revealed in his post, was the psychological message sent to Nigerians—that anyone who dares to speak against the powerful will be silenced and disgraced. “It’s not just about VDM anymore. This is about sending fear into the minds of young Nigerians,” he wrote. “You can arrest a man’s body, but not his truth.”
VDM, whose real name is not yet confirmed by authorities, was arrested on May 2, 2025, under still-unclear charges. Videos of his arrest circulated online, showing several EFCC officers surrounding him and escorting him away as stunned onlookers recorded. Civil society groups and digital rights advocates have since raised alarm over the optics and implications of the move.
The priest’s comments have gained widespread support, with thousands of Nigerians reposting screenshots and calling on religious and moral leaders to speak out against what they see as systemic oppression. The hashtag #FreeVDM continues to trend across all major social platforms, and now, the clergy’s involvement has added a powerful moral weight to the protest.
Activists are demanding a clear explanation from the EFCC, with some accusing the agency of using selective enforcement and targeting public critics. Legal professionals also question whether due process was followed and if the rights of the activist were respected during his apprehension.
Calls for transparency are growing louder, as more Nigerians view the situation as a reflection of broader institutional intolerance for dissent. With the clergy stepping into the conversation, the arrest of VeryDarkMan is no longer just a legal issue—it’s fast becoming a moral referendum on power, speech, and democracy.
