EFCC Releases Official Statement on VeryDarkMan’s Arrest, Sets Bail Conditions.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued an official statement regarding the controversial arrest of social media activist Martins Innocent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
According to eyewitnesses, VDM was inside a GTBank branch with his mother and brother when he was detained. Reports claim he was locked inside the bank’s walk-through metal detector for 10 minutes before EFCC operatives allegedly threw a black bag over his head and whisked him away, leaving onlookers in shock.
VDM had reportedly visited the bank to report unauthorized withdrawals from his mother’s account before his arrest.
EFCC’s Official Statement
In its statement titled “EFCC’s Case Against Martins Innocent Otse,” the commission defended its actions, stating that VDM had repeatedly ignored invitations despite multiple petitions against him.
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Below is the full EFCC statement:
“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. 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 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. 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.”
While the EFCC confirmed that VDM has been granted administrative bail, the specific conditions were not stated in the official release. This has raised further questions, with critics demanding transparency in the process.
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The arrest has continued to spark outrage, with many Nigerians questioning the EFCC’s approach—particularly the manner of VDM’s detention inside the bank. Some have accused the agency of targeting critics, while others insist that if there are legitimate financial crimes, due process must be followed.
EFCC Releases Official Statement on VeryDarkMan’s Arrest, Sets Bail Conditions.
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