Controversial activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has broken his silence following his arrest and detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to a 9am News report, VeryDarkMan was arrested on May 2 after visiting a new generation bank branch in Abuja and was released on May 7, following five days in EFCC custody. His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed the release.
“I Don’t Have the Money They Think I Do” — VeryDarkMan
In a video shared with his lawyer, VDM dismissed the EFCC’s allegations of suspected money laundering as baseless. He clarified that his widely known charitable activities were not funded by hidden wealth but were often carried out through debt.
“They think I am into money laundering — how would they say money laundering for someone who has no money? I have done so many charities, and they wonder how. They don’t know that I use debt for charity. Anyway, we are outside, with my lawyer, of course,” VDM said.
The arrest of VeryDarkMan sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria, with fans and celebrities staging protests at EFCC offices to demand his release. Demonstrators condemned the EFCC’s action, calling it an attack on freedom of expression and activism.
VDM, who has built a large social media following through his outspoken views on political and social issues, has often drawn both praise and controversy. His recent detention intensified public debate around the treatment of activists and the EFCC’s handling of financial crime allegations.
According to his lawyer, Adeyanju, the EFCC accused VDM of suspected money laundering, citing his financial transactions and charitable activities as triggers for the investigation. However, Adeyanju emphasized that the activist does not possess the level of wealth that would typically attract money laundering charges and insisted the allegations were unfounded.
The protests by VDM’s supporters underscored the depth of his influence among young Nigerians, many of whom view him as a voice against corruption, injustice, and societal inequality.
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