Protesters, celebs, and politicians demand VeryDarkMan’s release as EFCC prepares charges

On Friday, May 2, popular activist and social media influencer Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Now, amid mounting pressure from protesters, celebrities, and political figures, sources say VDM will be released today, Tuesday, May 6, while the EFCC plans to formally charge him in court on Thursday, May 8.

Massive public reaction and street protests

VDM’s arrest sparked a strong public outcry, with scores of youths flooding the streets of Abuja in protest. The demonstrations—particularly active in the Wuse area—condemned the arrest as illegal and demanded his immediate release. Protesters have also vowed to escalate the matter to the Nigerian Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

Top politicians and celebrities speak out

Several high-profile figures voiced support for VDM and slammed his arrest:

• Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President, called the arrest “state-sponsored repression,” warning it reflects a dangerous trend under the current administration.

  “We must not allow state-sponsored repression to become the defining character of our democracy.”

• Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, criticized the “abduction-style” arrest:

  “If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.”

• Richard Akinnola, a legal rights activist, said:

  “It’s been over 24 hours since he was arrested. He ought to be granted bail or charged to court. Even an armed robber is entitled to his rights.”

Celebrities rally behind VDM

Afrobeat icon Davido and nightlife figure Cubana Chief Priest both called for VDM’s release, praising his positive impact and defending his freedom of speech.

Davido wrote: “The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging… makes one want to do more for the masses. Free my guy.”

Cubana Chief Priest added: “Joy no dey. The voice of the voiceless is missing. Peace dey cry, street dey call. Free VDM now.”

Why was VDM arrested?

According to the EFCC, VDM has not yet been formally charged, but the agency confirmed it is preparing multiple charges based on petitions alleging cyberstalking and related offences.

“Charges are currently being prepared… Once that is done, you will be among the first to be informed,” an EFCC source told Vanguard.

PDP and others question timing, demand transparency

Timothy Osadolor, PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, said the government’s slow response fueled the unrest:

“Had there been timely communication regarding the reasons for his arrest, I doubt we would have witnessed the current protests.”

He also criticized the government’s “disconnect from public sentiment,” urging youth to become more politically aware ahead of 2027 elections.

What’s next?
All eyes are on the EFCC, as Nigerians await official charges and VDM’s expected release later today. Public figures continue to warn against the erosion of civil liberties and call for greater accountability from law enforcement.