The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has granted bail to popular social media figure, Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), after his recent arrest. The EFCC confirmed the development in a statement released on Monday, explaining that Otse was invited by the agency due to a series of petitions concerning allegations of financial crimes.
According to the EFCC, Otse had previously ignored multiple invitations to attend interviews regarding the allegations against him, which ultimately led to his arrest. The Commission clarified that Otse’s arrest was not directly related to his public statements or remarks but was instead based on ongoing investigations into the alleged financial malfeasance.
“The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Vincent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him,” the statement read. “He refused to show up despite several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication.”
The EFCC also clarified that Otse’s arrest was not influenced by his previous attacks on the Commission but was solely based on the merit of the allegations. The anti-graft agency assured the public that it will continue to handle the case impartially, with appropriate legal proceedings to follow once investigations are completed.
“While we acknowledge the public's keen interest in the case, the EFCC urges Nigerians to refrain from speculation,” the Commission stated. “The EFCC will carry out its duties without bias or external influence, and appropriate charges will be filed once the investigation is concluded.”
Otse, who has built a reputation for his controversial online commentary, was granted administrative bail following his detention, with conditions to be fulfilled before his release. The EFCC emphasized that its mandate to fight financial crime remains unaffected by public opinion, reinforcing its commitment to tackling illicit financial activities without fear or favor.
