Nigerians Protest VeryDarkMan’s Arrest, Demand Immediate Release.
Nigerians have taken to the streets in protest following the arrest of popular activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Demonstrators gathered outside GTBank, where VDM was detained, as well as outside EFCC offices, demanding his unconditional release. Videos circulating online show crowds chanting slogans against what they describe as government intimidation of critics.
Sowore, Peter Obi Join Calls for VDM’s Freedom
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has condemned the arrest, calling it an attempt to silence VDM for exposing alleged corruption. Sowore argued that the EFCC has no legal grounds to prosecute cyber-related defamation cases, which are typically civil matters.
READ: Was VeryDarkMan (VDM) Arrested for Criticizing the Senate President?
Similarly, Labour Party’s Peter Obi has joined the growing list of voices calling for transparency in VDM’s detention. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Obi emphasized the importance of free speech and due process, urging authorities to either charge VDM properly or release him immediately.
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Nigerians Boycott GTBank Over Arrest
The manner of VDM’s arrest—inside a GTBank branch—has also sparked outrage, with many customers closing their accounts in protest. Social media is flooded with posts under the hashtag #BoycottGTBank, as users accuse the bank of complicity in the activist’s detention.
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Why Was VDM Arrested?
An anonymous EFCC source claimed that VDM was arrested following multiple complaints that he used his platform to harass and intimidate individuals, potentially violating Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act. However, the identities of the complainants remain undisclosed, fueling suspicions of a politically motivated arrest.
VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed the detention but stated that the EFCC has yet to specify the exact charges. The commission is reportedly preparing to file formal charges as early as Monday.
With public anger growing and high-profile figures demanding justice, the question remains: Is this a legitimate legal action or an attempt to muzzle a vocal critic?
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