On Monday, May 5, 2025, Nigerian youths took to the streets in Abuja to demand the immediate release of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The protest was sparked by his controversial arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which has ignited nationwide debates about activism and freedom of speech.
Protesters gathered at various locations, including the headquarters of Guaranty Trust Bank and the EFCC office in Jabi, chanting slogans like “He’s not a thief” and “Release VDM now.” Many carried placards bearing messages such as “Activism is not a sin,” “VDM is the masses’ liberator,” and “VDM has committed no offence.” The protests disrupted traffic in parts of Wuse and Jabi, with a heavy security presence in the area. Protesters aimed to highlight what they see as an unlawful arrest and a broader threat to free speech and civil liberty in Nigeria.
VDM was reportedly arrested on Friday, May 2, after visiting a GTBank branch with his mother to resolve an issue regarding suspicious deductions from her bank account. His legal representative, activist-lawyer Deji Adeyanju, claimed that VDM was ambushed and arrested by EFCC operatives inside the bank. However, GTBank denied the accusation, releasing CCTV footage that showed VDM leaving the banking hall and heading toward the car park. The footage does not capture the exact moment of his arrest, as it happened outside the bank’s premises.
The EFCC confirmed the arrest, stating it was related to allegations of cyberstalking. However, the agency has yet to release detailed information about the charges or evidence against VDM, which has led to further outrage.
The hashtag #FreeVDM has gone viral on social media, with many Nigerians, including prominent figures such as Peter Obi and Davido, lending their support and calling for his immediate release.
As the pressure mounts, legal teams are working to challenge VDM’s detention and ensure that due process is followed. Human rights organizations have also been alerted, with plans to escalate the issue to the National Human Rights Commission.
