Youths Protest in Abuja, Celebrities Join Growing Calls for VeryDarkMan’s Release

Tensions flared in Nigeria’s capital city on Monday, May 5, 2025, as hundreds of youths took to the streets in protest over the arrest and continued detention of popular social media personality and human rights activist, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The protest, held in the Wuse area near Berger bridge, drew attention to what the demonstrators described as the illegal and unjustified arrest of the activist by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Clutching placards with inscriptions such as “Free VeryDarkMan Now!”, “Activism is Not a Crime”, and “We Demand Justice for VDM”, the protesters accused the EFCC of unlawfully detaining the outspoken critic of social injustice. The group, composed mainly of young Nigerians, vowed to escalate their peaceful demonstration by taking their message to the Nigerian Human Rights Commission (NHRC) located in Maitama, Abuja.

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EFCC Confirms Arrest Over Multiple Petitions

VDM’s arrest on Friday, May 2, 2025, occurred after he accompanied his mother to Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) to resolve an issue regarding an unexplained deduction from her bank account. According to the EFCC, the activist’s visit coincided with his apprehension, but the agency insists the arrest was not related to the banking dispute.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, in a Monday interview with BBC News Pidgin, stated that VDM was taken into custody based on “a series of allegations raised against him by multiple petitioners.” He emphasized that the arrest was not linked to GTBank but was the result of complaints from unrelated individuals.

“We arrested him to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners. We have a duty to protect citizens who file complaints with us,” Oyewale explained.

He further clarified that VDM’s release would be secured once he meets bail conditions and that the case would proceed to court in due course. “We will release him when he meets the bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible. We are law-abiding,” he added.

Public Outcry and Celebrity Solidarity Surge

VDM’s arrest has quickly evolved from a legal matter into a broader civil rights issue, gaining traction across social media and drawing endorsements from influential public figures. Notably, award-winning Nigerian singer Davido and fellow artist Skales joined the chorus of voices demanding his immediate release.

In a heartfelt message posted on his 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) handle, Davido praised Nigerians for rallying around VDM and spoke of the activist’s impact on youth empowerment. “Outside all the noise, it’s good to see that the good one does actually impact lives and people actually appreciate! The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging… makes one want to do more for the masses. FREE MY GUY,” Davido tweeted.

Similarly, Skales, known for his hit single “Shake Body,” criticized the arrest and encouraged Nigerian youths to take a stand. He urged them to “wise up” and defend their rights while calling for a boycott of GTBank—a move reflecting the activist’s original complaint involving the financial institution.

Protesters Demand Due Process and Transparency

Protesters in Abuja insist that VDM’s arrest is a calculated attempt to silence dissenting voices who speak truth to power through digital platforms. Several demonstrators who spoke to reporters accused the EFCC of using its powers to intimidate and suppress social commentary that challenges systemic injustice.

“He is not a criminal. He is a voice for the voiceless. This arrest is not about any petition; it’s about shutting him up,” said one protester, Chika Nwosu, a university student. “We won’t stop until he’s free and his rights are respected.”

The protest has sparked a wave of online activism, with hashtags like #FreeVeryDarkMan and #JusticeForVDM trending nationwide. Civil society organizations have also weighed in, urging the EFCC to ensure that VDM’s rights are not violated and that the allegations against him are handled with full transparency.

Broader Implications for Activism and Digital Speech

VDM, known for his bold commentary on corruption, governance, and social issues, has cultivated a massive online following. His arrest underscores the growing tension between state authorities and digital influencers who challenge official narratives.

Legal experts warn that such arrests, if not managed within the framework of constitutional rights, could set a dangerous precedent for curbing freedom of expression. “If there are genuine allegations, let them be tested in court. But prolonged detention without clear charges sends a chilling message to activists,” said human rights lawyer, Ngozi Eze.

As protests continue and national attention intensifies, many await the EFCC’s next move. For now, the pressure mounts—not only for the release of VeryDarkMan but for a larger conversation about civil liberties, digital rights, and the power of youth mobilization in Nigeria’s democratic space.