The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned Nigerians over the reactions that trailed the arrest of social media influencer Martins Otse, well known as VeryDarkMan.
The EFCC, in a statement on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, said VeryDarkMan was arrested over “grave allegations of financial malfeasance”.
The anti-graft agency noted that the allegations cannot be ignored by the commission, saying VeryDarkMan refused to honour several invitations extended to him.
It stated: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Vincent 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.
EFCC: Why we arrested VeryDarkMan
“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 EFCC, therefore, enjoined Nigerians to refrain from speculating about the commission’s motives and be allowed to carry out its constitutional duties.
The agency added: “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.”
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