Supporters of embattled activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), have expressed delight over his release after spending six days in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) .
Earlier, in a viral video posted by his supporters on social media , VDM was seen inside a car alongside his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, revealing that he was arrested on allegations of money laundering.
He however questioned the credibility of the accusation, stating that someone in his financial position could hardly be involved in such an offence.
He said: “How can EFCC accuse someone who isn’t wealthy of money laundering? I’ve done a lot of charity work, and they’re wondering where I get the money from, not knowing I’m running it on debt.
“Anyway, I’m out here with my lawyer—and you know what I stand for. I can never be locked up as long as my lawyer is by my side.”
The video was thereafter followed by a post by Adeyanju on his social media page confirming that VDM was released on bail.
He wrote: “VDM released to us on bail. Special thanks to Deji Adeyanju and Partners, especially the head of our firm, Marvin Omorogbe. Thank you, Nigerians, for speaking up for him. Thank you, Egbon Sowore.
“Thank you, Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Davido, opposition lawmakers, etc.
“I must also thank the chairman of EFCC for indulging and listening to all my concerns since Friday last week and his team. The struggle continues.”
VDM was arrested by operatives of the EFCC on Friday in Abuja, with the anti-graft agency disclosing that it secured a court order to remand him pending conclusion of an investigation into alleged cybercrime offences.
His arrest immediately sparked outrage on social media, with the hashtag #FreeVDM, trending across different platforms, as well as protests by VDM’s supporters in Abuja and other parts of the country, calling for his release.
Many celebrities, including Davido and Cubana Chief Priest said VDM’s arrest was carried out like an “abduction”, which left many Nigerians worried, and therefore demand his release.
However, his release has stir reactions from different quarters,particularly his fans and netizens, causing a buzz in social media.