Social media is in uproar after the controversial arrest of online activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The arrest has ignited a fierce debate among Nigerian celebrities and influencers, dividing the digital community and raising questions about freedom of speech, online activism, and the limits of defamation.
VDM, known for his outspoken and often contentious commentary on social media, was apprehended on Friday on allegations of cyberstalking. A source within the EFCC confirmed that the arrest was linked to accusations of online harassment and defamation.
While comedian Deeone has publicly backed the arrest, claiming that VDM's repeated attacks and unfounded allegations against public figures crossed a line, many others, including music superstars Davido, Peter Okoye (of P-Square), Afrobeat artist Seun Kuti, and influencer Tunde Ednut, have voiced strong opposition, demanding his immediate release.
Deeone’s comments have sparked controversy, with the comedian stating on social media that VDM had used his activism as a cover for clout-chasing and personal vendettas. He argued that the content creator had long stepped over the line with his attacks on public figures and institutions.
In sharp contrast, Davido’s cryptic post on X (formerly Twitter) appears to support VeryDarkMan. The music mogul expressed his appreciation for the outpouring of support VDM has received, writing: “Outside all the noise, it’s good to see that the good one does actually impacts lives and people actually appreciate! The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging, makes one want to do more for the masses. FREE MY GUY.”
Peter Okoye, also known as Mr P, shared his own solidarity with the arrested activist on Instagram, posting a series of photos of VDM with the caption: “#FreeVDM ✊🏾🙅🏽♂️⛓️#FreeVeryDarkMan @verydarkblackman.”
Afrobeat star Seun Kuti joined the growing list of supporters, claiming that powerful religious leaders and financial institutions were behind VDM’s troubles, alleging that they were using their influence to suppress dissenting voices. He took to social media to accuse these entities of targeting VDM for challenging the status quo, saying, “As the Federal government is running our country, all these big pastors dey run Nigeria. The people of God are the ones fighting VDM for speaking the truth.”
Tunde Ednut, a popular blogger and influencer, also amplified his support by resharing clips of VDM’s past advocacy work, positioning him as a necessary but controversial voice in Nigeria’s socio-political discourse. Ednut’s post further fueled the debate, with many agreeing with his stance that VDM’s activism had served as a voice for the marginalized.
However, skitmaker Saidaboj, who has had public disagreements with VDM in the past, has remained neutral, neither supporting nor condemning the activist's arrest. His silence in the matter reflects the broader divide within the influencer community.
This polarizing reaction to VDM’s arrest highlights the deepening fault lines in Nigeria’s influencer and celebrity circles, as the public debates the role of online activism, defamation laws, and the limits of free speech in an increasingly digital world. The case has sparked wider conversations about the need to balance the protection of reputations with the right to voice dissent in a rapidly evolving online landscape.
