A group of young Nigerians staged a protest at the headquarters of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) Abuja on Monday, 5 May, demanding the immediate release of social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
The demonstration followed his alleged arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
Eyewitnesses said Otse was detained after visiting a branch of GTB in Abuja with his mother to resolve an issue related to his account. He was reportedly taken into custody shortly afterwards.
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.
While the protest was peaceful, police and other security operatives were seen monitoring the situation from a distance..
On social media, the hashtag #FreeVDM has been trending nationwide, with supporters, civil society groups, and prominent figures expressing concern over Otse’s arrest and detention.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi condemned the manner of his arrest via his social media channels.
He stated on X, “The display of force, lacking in transparency and civility, closely resembled an abduction, a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements.”
Abubakar added, “The Tinubu administration’s systematic crackdown on opposition voices is nothing short of disgraceful. It is an affront to democratic norms and must be fiercely condemned and resisted.”