By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Martins Innocent Otse, the outspoken and controversial Nigerian social media influencer better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been released on administrative bail by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following his arrest over multiple allegations of financial crimes.
According to The Sun Nigeria, the EFCC emphasized that the arrest was not a response to Otse’s frequent online criticism of the Commission, stating pointedly: “His arrest was not informed by such attacks,” a direct rebuttal to widespread public speculation.
EFCC officials said Otse was invited multiple times to respond to petitions implicating him in alleged acts of financial misconduct, but he failed to appear or respond through known communication channels.
The Commission then obtained a legal remand order to effect his arrest. Though the EFCC has not publicly disclosed the specific nature of the allegations, it described the claims as serious and worthy of thorough investigation.
Otse’s arrest sparked massive public engagement online, with supporters questioning the timing and motive behind the move. However, the Commission reiterated that it operates within legal boundaries and will not be swayed by public opinion.
“The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour,” it stated, adding that the appropriate charges will be filed once the investigation is concluded.
While Otse has now been released, the terms of his bail have not been made public. His release does not signal the end of the matter, as the EFCC continues to review the petitions and determine the next legal steps.
