EFCC Denies Confirming VeryDarkMan’s Arrest to BBC

 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted claims that it confirmed the arrest of popular social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to the BBC. The commission is now calling the viral report nothing more than "fake news."

Over the weekend, BBC News reported that the EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, had disclosed that VDM was arrested based on multiple petitions, allegedly involving cyberstalking, and that plans were underway to arraign him in court.

However, in a surprising twist, the anti-graft agency took to its official Instagram handle to set the record straight. The EFCC categorically denied issuing any such statement or confirming the influencer’s arrest to the BBC.

"The attention of the EFCC has been drawn to a report circulating in the media claiming that the Commission confirmed the arrest and planned arraignment of one Martins Otse (aka VeryDarkMan). The report is false and misleading," the EFCC wrote.

The rebuttal throws fresh uncertainty around the circumstances of VDM's detention, which has sparked debate online. With no official reason yet disclosed by the EFCC, speculation continues to swirl about what prompted the agency’s action.

The conflicting reports have fueled a wave of confusion and outrage, especially among VDM’s fans and free speech advocates. Many are calling for greater transparency from the EFCC, demanding clarity on why the outspoken critic is in custody and whether his arrest aligns with due process.