Some youths assembled today, May 5, 2025, at the junction leading to the EFCC headquarters in Jabi area, Abuja, demanding the release of popular social media activist, Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
The protesters, holding placards with inscriptions like “Free VDM Now!” and “Justice for VDM,” caused a very heavy traffic in the area.
VDM was arrested on Friday, May 2, 2025, by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). After some days, the EFCC officially confirmed that VDM was being held over allegations of cyberstalking. The commission claimed that the arrest followed several petitions regarding his online activities, which they deemed potentially harmful and defamatory.
While the EFCC insisted the case was being handled within legal bounds, many believed the arrest was politically motivated due to VDM’s outspoken nature.
The news of his arrest sparked different reactions online, and it has become a trending topic across all major platforms. Prominent Nigerians and activists have joined the call for his release. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi condemned the EFCC’s manner of arresting VDM, in stating it lacked due process and transparency. Afrobeats superstar Davido also lent his voice to the campaign, tweeting in support of VDM and urging authorities to uphold justice and fairness.
In response to public outcry, an official protest was announced, scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, 2025. VDM’s elder brother, Mark Vincent Otse, is set to lead the peaceful demonstration. Participants have been urged to dress formally; either in suits or traditional attire and carry briefcases to symbolize seriousness and civility.
Organizers have emphasized a peaceful approach, discouraging any form of violence, music, or rowdiness during the march. The goal, they said, is to send a clear, respectable message to the authorities.
With the heat of things one thing is evident; the demand for VDM’s release is growing louder and more organized. Whether on the streets of Abuja or the screens of social media users across the country, the voices calling for justice show no signs of giving up.
EFCC has just spoken up, claiming that VDM was arrested on account of multiple petitions against his person, the agency has promised to charge him to court immediately.
