Abuja, Nigeria – Tensions flared in the Federal Capital Territory on Monday as a large crowd of protesters stormed the headquarters of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), demanding the release of controversial social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
Chanting slogans such as “#FreeVDM,” and wielding placards with messages like “Activism is not a sin,” and “VDM is the masses’ liberator,” the demonstrators accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of targeting the activist for his outspoken commentary.
VDM was recently arrested by EFCC operatives over allegations of cyberstalking—a move that has since sparked online outrage and public criticism, with some questioning GTBank’s alleged involvement in the incident.
According to his legal counsel, rights activist Deji Adeyanju, VDM was apprehended by EFCC agents while inside the bank’s premises. However, GTBank has refuted the claim, releasing CCTV footage that shows Otse exiting the banking hall and walking toward the car park moments before his arrest. The footage, however, does not capture the exact moment of the arrest—likely due to a camera blind spot.
The controversy has reignited debates about free speech, digital rights, and the treatment of online critics in Nigeria.
VDM has had multiple run-ins with law enforcement. In May 2024, he was arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja on five counts of cyberstalking, including alleged harassment of the Nigeria Police Force and Nollywood actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded until his bail hearing.
In a separate case in November 2024, he faced fresh charges of impersonation after allegedly dressing as a police officer. He again pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of ₦2 million.
As calls for his release grow louder, questions remain over the legality of his latest arrest and the role financial institutions may play—wittingly or unwittingly—in such operations.
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