The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced that activist Martins ‘Verydarkblackman (VDM)’ Otse will be charged to court soon after meeting his bail conditions.
The EFCC revealed that he was arrested following multiple complaints from petitioners with grievances against him.
Reports on social media had earlier claimed that VDM was missing, while others said he was arrested at a GT Bank branch.
His supporters quickly launched online protests, with some even threatening action against the bank.
Over the weekend, some of VDM’s mentees and supporters visited the EFCC office to deliver food but were turned away by security officers, who said they would handle the activist’s meals themselves.
Meanwhile, some young Nigerians have planned a physical protest in Abuja to demand his release.
Public figures like Labour Party’s Peter Obi and musician Davido have also joined the conversation online. Obi criticized the arrest procedure, comparing it to a kidnapping, while Davido called for VDM’s release.
Activist Omoyele Sowore accused the EFCC of trying to silence one of the country’s loudest voices against corruption.
VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed that the activist was picked up at a bank where he had gone with his mother to file a complaint.
The legal team expressed displeasure over the arrest process, stating that EFCC officials showed them a warrant signed by Chief Magistrate Njideka Iloanya Duru, citing allegations of cyberstalking.
This is not the first time VDM has faced arrest over controversial issues.
Earlier in March 2025, a court in Abuja issued a warrant against him for failing to appear on criminal defamation charges filed by gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.
Back in October 2024, police detained him for wearing a police uniform in social media content, though he was later released on bail.
In February 2025, VDM himself claimed the EFCC was plotting to arrest him after a video surfaced showing him spraying money.
