The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of popular social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, following multiple petitions alleging cyberstalking.
Speaking to BBC Pidgin on Monday, EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, explained that the arrest stemmed from “a series of allegations” made by various petitioners, and not a specific incident.
“We arrested him to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners,” Oyewale stated, adding that Otse would be released once he meets the bail conditions set by the court. “We are law-abiding. He will be released when he meets the bail conditions,” he emphasised.
Oyewale also addressed public speculation regarding Otse’s arrest, clarifying that the case is not directly linked to Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), where Otse was taken into custody last Friday.
“There is no direct connection to GTBank in this case,” he said, stressing that the EFCC is duty-bound to act on legitimate complaints brought to its attention.
Otse’s sudden disappearance had sparked widespread concern online, with initial reports suggesting he was arrested at a GTBank branch. His supporters quickly rallied on social media, demanding answers and accusing the bank of complicity. Protests followed, with some individuals threatening to boycott GTBank in response.
As of the time of this report, GTBank has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
Over the weekend, several of Otse’s followers reportedly visited the EFCC office in Abuja in an effort to deliver food to him. However, security personnel turned them away, informing them that detainees are not allowed to receive visitors and that the commission would be responsible for his welfare.
The case continues to generate significant public interest as Nigerians await further developments.
