POPULAR rights activist Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after spending days in detention.
His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed the release of the activist in a post on X on Wednesday, May 7.
“VDM released to us on bail. Special thanks to @DAPLawFirm, especially the head of our firm, @Marvin_Omorogbe. Thank you, Nigerians, for speaking up for him. Thank you, Egbon @YeleSowore. Thank you, HE Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Davido, opposition lawmakers, etc.
“I must also thank the chairman of the EFCC for indulging and listening to all my concerns since Friday last week, and his team. The struggle continues,” Adeyanju posted on X.
An activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, also confirmed VDM’s release in an update on his official Facebook page on Wednesday evening. “VDM Released!” he posted.
VDM has been in the custody of the anti-graft agency since he was arrested in Abuja on Friday, May 2.
His arrest led to an uproar across the nation, with youths demanding his immediate and unconditional release.
Protesters gathered near the EFCC headquarters in the Jabi district of Abuja, carrying placards and chanting slogans such as “He’s not a thief!” and “Release VDM!”
The protest caused significant traffic disruptions, drawing the attention of motorists and bystanders.
“We are here because VDM speaks truth to power. He shouldn’t be punished for using his voice,” said one protester who declined to be named. Others accused the authorities of attempting to silence Otse over his outspokenness on social and political issues.
“This is not just about Martins. It’s about freedom of expression,” said another demonstrator. “Arresting someone without clear charges sends a dangerous message,” the protester added.
The ICIR reported on Tuesday, May 6, that his arrest followed a series of petitions against the activist. The EFCC claimed that several invitations were sent to him, but he failed to honour them.
“We arrested him (VDM) to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners. We will release him once he meets the bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible,” the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, stated.
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Thank God almighty for VDM release