VeryDarkMan has broken his silence following his dramatic arrest and five-day detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), revealing that he was accused of money laundering despite not possessing significant wealth. The controversial social critic, whose real name is Martins Otse, shared his ordeal in a viral video after his release on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
The activist explained that EFCC operatives suspected him of laundering money through his charity activities, a claim he dismissed as absurd. “They think I’m into money laundering. How would they accuse someone who doesn’t even have money?” he said with visible disbelief. “I do charity with debt. They don’t understand how I make things happen.”
His arrest, which took place on Friday, May 2, shortly after visiting a GTBank branch in Abuja with his mother, sparked nationwide protests. From celebrities to grassroots supporters, Nigerians flooded EFCC offices and social media platforms demanding his immediate release, labeling the arrest a politically motivated crackdown on free speech.
In his post-release video, VeryDarkMan appeared with his lawyer and maintained his usual defiant tone. “Anyway, we are outside,” he said, using street slang to announce his freedom. He further assured followers that he won’t be silenced, emphasizing that he remains committed to exposing injustice and helping the underprivileged—regardless of intimidation tactics.
The EFCC has not issued a formal charge sheet, and while officials confirmed multiple petitions triggered the arrest, details remain vague. Legal experts and civil society organizations have criticized the agency for what they describe as “detain-first, investigate-later” tactics that continue to erode public trust in Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight.
Supporters online are hailing VeryDarkMan’s release as a people-powered victory, crediting social media pressure and celebrity advocacy for forcing the EFCC’s hand. The hashtag #FreeVDM, which dominated trends throughout his detention, has now evolved into #VDMIsBack, as his followers rally behind his next move.
The incident has reignited debates around civil liberties, digital activism, and state overreach in Nigeria. For many, VeryDarkMan’s ordeal is more than a legal case—it’s a symbol of the rising tension between outspoken youth voices and institutional authority.
