VeryDarkMan Freed After Uproar: Protest Forces EFCC to Back Down

VeryDarkMan has been released from EFCC custody after spending five days in detention, spanning joy and relief among his followers and activists who demanded his freedom.

The social media activist, whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, walked out on Wednesday after massive public pressure forced the hand of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, shared the news in a post on X, thanking those who stood by the activist.

“VDM released to us on bail. Special thanks to @DAPLawFirm, especially the head of our firm, @Marvin_Omorogbe,” he wrote.

Adeyanju also thanked politicians, celebrities, and everyday Nigerians who spoke out. “Thank you, Nigerians, for speaking up for him. Thank you, Egbon @YeleSowore. Thank you, HE Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Davido, opposition lawmakers, etc.”

He ended his message with hope. “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.”

For days, #FreeVDM and #JusticeForVDM trended across platforms. Thousands of young Nigerians poured into the streets of Abuja, chanting and holding signs near the EFCC office.

Many held placards with messages like “He’s not a thief!” and “Release VDM!” The protest, held in the Jabi area, blocked roads and caused heavy traffic. But that didn’t stop the chants.

One protester said, “We are here because VDM speaks truth to power. He shouldn’t be punished for using his voice.” Another added, “This is not just about Martins. It’s about freedom of expression.”

Protesters believe the government wanted to silence VDM because of his online influence. They say his arrest was not about any crime but about making him quiet.

“Arresting someone without clear charges sends a dangerous message,” a woman in the crowd explained.

The EFCC admitted they arrested him over several petitions. Their spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said, “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.”

Still, the EFCC did not say what the petitions were about. This silence has worried many. Critics now wonder if any online activist is safe from being picked up without warning.

VeryDarkMan, known for his strong opinions and fearless criticism, had become a rising voice for justice. He often used his social media platforms to expose scams, condemn bad leadership, and defend ordinary people.

His videos may be controversial, but they’ve drawn millions of views and built him a loyal following.

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“VDM gives the poor and voiceless a chance to be heard,” said a young protester in Abuja. “Now they want to crush him for being honest.”

During the protests, support came from all directions. Music star Davido reposted tweets calling for VDM’s release. Political leaders like Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar made statements in his favor. Activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore also confirmed VDM’s release, posting simply: “VDM Released!”

While VDM has not yet spoken publicly, his fans believe he will soon address the nation and continue speaking out. For now, he remains in touch with his legal team.

Supporters say his release shows that unity can challenge injustice. “This is a people’s victory,” a protester shouted. “We stood up and we won.”

Some see this as a warning to public agencies. “They thought locking him up would break us,” said a protester. “Instead, it made us louder.”

Many Nigerians now see VDM as a symbol of freedom of expression, especially in a time when truth is often punished.

The arrest raised big questions. What were the allegations? Why did the EFCC wait until protests broke out? Why hasn’t the commission given clear answers?

As these questions grow, so does support for VDM. His fans promise to stand by him, no matter what comes next.

“We’re ready,” a follower wrote online. “If they touch VDM again, we’ll be back on the streets.”

This is not the first time Nigerians have pushed back against perceived injustice. But this case felt different. It was fast. It was loud. And it worked.

VeryDarkMan’s freedom is not just his own. For many, it’s a reminder that even one voice, when echoed by thousands, can shake the system.