The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially denied releasing any public statement detailing the reasons behind the arrest of controversial social media personality, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). This development comes amidst widespread media reports claiming the anti-graft agency had spoken on the matter.
In an update published on its official Instagram page, the EFCC dismissed a post shared by popular broadcaster and Arise News journalist, Rufai Oseni, as “fake news.” The Commission indirectly clarified that no authorised statement had been issued regarding the circumstances surrounding VDM’s arrest, contrary to what was reported by platforms like BBC News Pidgin and others.
This comes days after earlier reports, including a widely circulated interview attributed to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, claimed that VDM was arrested in response to “a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners,” and that “we will release him if he meets his bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible.” The statements, which stirred public discourse and sparked protests in Abuja, are now being called into question by the Commission itself.
The twist has reignited debates online, with many Nigerians questioning the EFCC’s communication strategy and transparency in handling high-profile cases, especially involving public figures who challenge the status quo.
VDM’s arrest has already become a trending topic, triggering a social media storm and street protests from supporters who believe the move is a clampdown on free speech. Many fans and commentators saw the initial media reports as the EFCC’s attempt to justify his detention, but the recent denial has only added to the confusion.
As of now, VDM remains in custody, and the EFCC maintains that it will act in accordance with the law while refraining from further comment. The public, however, continues to demand clarity and accountability from both the Commission and media outlets reporting on the case.
With conflicting reports and increasing scrutiny, all eyes remain on the EFCC for the next move, and on VDM, whose online influence continues to loom large even in detention.
