Activist and social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), who was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) last Friday, is set to be released today, a reliable source has informed RoseOnAllSides.

The release reportedly follows widespread protests that erupted in Abuja on Monday, as supporters and human rights advocates demanded his freedom. However, he is expected to be formally charged in court on Thursday.

Public Outcry Over Detention

Scores of youths took to the streets of the Federal Capital Territory, voicing their displeasure over what they described as the illegal detention of VDM. Protesters were sighted in the Wuse area, beyond Berger bridge, holding placards and chanting solidarity songs.

Notable voices including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, PDP, activist Richard Akinnola, Afrobeats star Davido, and nightlife promoter Cubana Chief Priest have condemned the arrest, describing it as an abuse of power.

The EFCC confirmed VDM’s detention but stated that he has not yet been formally charged. According to a source within the agency, multiple charges relating to cyberstalking and other offences are currently being prepared based on a number of petitions received.

“As of today, VeryDarkMan has not been charged in court. However, charges are in progress and will be filed in the coming days,” the source told Vanguard in Abuja.

FG’s Silence Fuelled Protests — PDP

Deputy National Youth Leader of the PDP, Timothy Osadolor, blamed the Federal Government’s silence for the unrest, stating that most of the protesters were unaware of the reasons behind VDM’s arrest until shortly before hitting the streets.

He criticized the delay in official communication by law enforcement agencies, saying it exacerbated public frustration.

“If there had been timely clarification, we likely wouldn’t have seen such protests,” he said.
“This government seems disconnected from public sentiment — their response was reactive rather than proactive.”

Osadolor also highlighted the need for youth voter education ahead of the 2027 elections, urging young Nigerians to prioritize hard work and responsible civic engagement.

Atiku: We Must Resist State-Sponsored Repression

In a strongly worded statement, Atiku Abubakar described the incident as part of a larger pattern of repression and authoritarianism by the current administration.

“VDM’s detention without formal charges is a violation of his constitutional rights. The Tinubu regime’s assault on free speech is alarming,” he said.

He pointed out that while critics are swiftly targeted, political allies with serious corruption allegations often go untouched.

“We must not let state-sponsored repression become the norm in our democracy,” Atiku warned.

It’s Illegal to Detain VDM Beyond 24 Hours — Akinnola

Human rights advocate Richard Akinnola weighed in on the legality of the detention via a post on Facebook:

“Even if VDM is controversial, he is entitled to his rights. Detaining him for over 24 hours without bail or court appearance is unconstitutional.”

Celebrities Demand VDM’s Release

Several celebrities, including Davido and Cubana Chief Priest, have voiced their support for VDM’s release.

Davido wrote on X:

“Outside all the noise, it’s good to see that the good he does impacts lives. The support I’m seeing is encouraging. Free my guy.”

Cubana Chief Priest shared on Instagram:

“Joy no dey… The voice of the voiceless is missing. We hope for his release today or at least a statement from those who picked him up. #FreeVDM”

Public Sentiment Strong Online

VDM’s fans and followers have flooded social media with messages of support:

  • @ibrahimazeez21: “We need voices like yours. CP, you’re always loved.”

  • @orife_orife: “Davido and Chief Priest are showing real leadership. Thank you.”

  • @supernickky_musik: “If VDM can go missing, freedom of speech isn’t real.”

  • @X_apprendre: “This solidarity reminds us that integrity still matters.”

Peter Obi Criticizes Arrest

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi also condemned the manner of VDM’s arrest, likening it to an abduction.

“The display of force, lacking transparency and civility, is disturbing. When citizens can't tell the difference between a legal arrest and a kidnapping, national security suffers.”