Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after several days in detention.
Otse was reportedly arrested on Friday, May 3, 2024, by the anti-graft agency over allegations linked to multiple petitions involving financial misconduct. According to the EFCC, the activist had failed to respond to several formal invitations sent to his known addresses and communication channels, prompting his arrest.
His release was confirmed on Wednesday, May 8, by former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, who shared the news via his official X (formerly Twitter) account.
“Thanks to relentless public pressure, @thatverydarkman has now regained his freedom from the @officialEFCC. He is currently in the company of his lawyer, @adeyanjudeji,” Sowore posted.
Otse’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, also confirmed the development, expressing gratitude to the public and prominent figures who advocated for his release.
“VDM has been released to us on bail. Special thanks to @DAPLawFirm, especially our head of chambers, @Marvin_Omorogbe. Thank you Nigerians for raising your voices. Sincere appreciation to Egbon @YeleSowore, H.E. Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Davido, and members of the opposition for their support. I also commend the EFCC chairman and his team for their cooperation,” Adeyanju wrote.
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Before his client was released, Adeyanju had criticized the EFCC’s handling of the bail process, describing it as “social media bail” due to the delay in issuing formal documentation, even after bail was reportedly granted.
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The EFCC had earlier issued a statement confirming that Otse had been granted administrative bail, but noted that he remained in custody pending the satisfaction of all bail conditions. The agency maintained that his arrest was based on credible petitions alleging involvement in financial crimes.
