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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has finally disclosed the reason behind the detention of social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM).
The activist was detained on Friday after visiting a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) branch in Abuja with his mother to address complaints of “unauthorised withdrawals” from her account.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju later revealed that VDM was taken into custody following a petition filed by a magistrate in Abuja.
In a statement via X on Tuesday, the EFCC revealed that VDM was arrested following multiple petitions by unnamed individuals accusing him of “financial malfeasance”.
The commission claimed he had repeatedly ignored invitations sent through his known channels, which led to his eventual arrest.
EFCC clarified that although aware of VDM’s public criticism of the agency and its operations, the arrest was based solely on the petitions.
“The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Innocent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him,” the post reads.
“He refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication.
“The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission.
“It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations.
“While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.”
The commission also said it is legally permitted to detain VDM during the investigation while confirming that he has been granted bail and will be released once the conditions are met.
EFCC said the charges against the activist will be disclosed after the investigation is completed.
The commission acknowledged the public’s interest but urged that it be allowed to carry out its duties without interference.
“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard,” the statement added.
“He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.
“The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome.
“However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue.
“The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed.”
Following his detention, supporters and associates of VeryDarkMan took to social media to campaign for his freedom including Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar , the former vice-president.
