Popular Nigerian social media influencer and activist, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has once again found himself in police custody. The outspoken critic was arrested on Friday in Abuja, sparking fresh outrage among his supporters and human rights advocates.
According to his lawyer, Denise Adeyanju, the arrest occurred at a branch of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) in the nation’s capital. Adeyanju, who confirmed the incident via VDM’s X (formerly Twitter) account, described the arrest as “absolutely unacceptable.”
“JUST IN: VDM arrested by the police at GTB. Spoke to them before he was arrested. This is absolutely unacceptable. Demanding accountability is not a crime,” the post read.
In a follow-up update, Adeyanju added that the controversial influencer was taken away by a team of police officers alongside his friend, identified as C Park. Notably, VDM’s mother, who was reportedly with them at the time, was left behind by the officers.
“VDM was arrested with his friend C Park, but they left his mum alone,” Adeyanju stated.
Details of the arrest remain unclear at this time, as the Nigerian Police Force has yet to release an official statement or disclose the reasons behind the operation. However, the development has already stirred debate on social media, with many calling for his immediate release and transparency from law enforcement.
This is not the first time VeryDarkMan has been at odds with the police. In November 2024, he was detained after honoring an invitation from security operatives, though the reasons for that arrest were also not fully disclosed.
Known for his bold and often controversial takes on social and political issues, VDM has amassed a large following online, making him a lightning rod for both praise and criticism.
As the story unfolds, Nigerians and human rights observers are keeping a close eye on developments, demanding answers and the protection of free speech in a democratic society.
