In what marks a significant moment of victory for civil liberty advocates and the growing army of digital truth-tellers, Martins Innocent Otse—widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM)—has regained his freedom after spending five days in detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The relentless public and legal pushback against what was increasingly perceived as a heavy-handed clampdown culminated in his release on Wednesday evening. The celebrated activist and social media influencer was released into the waiting arms of his indefatigable lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, who had earlier raised serious concerns over procedural delays in finalising VDM’s bail terms.
The EFCC had on Tuesday acknowledged granting administrative bail to the social critic following his arrest over alleged financial crimes. Yet, despite this official statement, Adeyanju labelled the bail “social media bail,” citing the Commission’s failure to provide formal documentation for his client’s release—a move that stirred further public outcry.
But by Wednesday, the tide turned.
News of VDM’s release broke through a post by renowned activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who tweeted:
“Thanks to unrelenting efforts of all, @thatverydarkman has been released from unjust detention at the @officialEFCC. He is with his ebullient lawyer, @adeyanjudeji.”
A resounding chorus of gratitude followed. Adeyanju confirmed the release and paid homage to a wide array of supporters who rallied behind the cause—among them political heavyweights like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, cultural icons like Davido, and grassroots activists and opposition lawmakers.
“Special thanks to @DAPLawFirm, especially the head of our firm @Marvin_Omorogbe. Thank you Nigerians for speaking up for him. Thank you Egbon @YeleSowore, HE Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Davido, and others,” Adeyanju posted.
He also extended rare appreciation to the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, for eventually “listening and indulging” his concerns, even as he maintained that “the struggle continues.”
The battle for VDM’s release underscored a wider discourse about transparency, abuse of power, and the responsibilities of law enforcement in a democratic setting. While the EFCC reiterated its lawful authority to detain suspects under remand orders, critics pointed out the dangerous optics of an extended detention without due process, especially of a known government critic.
According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, VeryDarkMan was invited in connection with “grave allegations of financial malfeasance” following “a series of petitions.” He added that the Commission had made repeated efforts to engage the activist, which were allegedly ignored.
However, public opinion, amplified through a torrent of online support and vocal solidarity from public figures, painted a contrasting picture—one of a state agency seemingly overreaching its powers.
VDM’s release has now become more than just a personal relief; it stands as a symbolic win for Nigeria’s civic space, freedom of expression, and the resilience of advocacy. In a country where silencing dissent can often pass unchecked, this episode reverberates as a cautionary tale to power and a rallying call to citizens: vigilance is the price of liberty.
