Deji Adeyanju, lawyer to social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has expressed frustration over the challenges in securing his client’s release from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to a statement by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, Otse was granted administrative bail but remains in custody due to unmet bail conditions. He noted that Otse was invited for questioning following multiple petitions alleging serious financial crimes and was arrested after repeatedly failing to respond to invitations sent to his known addresses.
“The EFCC has a lawful right to detain Otse during investigation, and the appropriate remand order was obtained. He has been offered administrative bail and will be released once the conditions are met,” Oyewale said.
Reacting to the development, Adeyanju said on social media that his legal team had been unable to access the documents outlining the bail terms, despite several attempts since they were informed of the bail.
“Bail granted VDM, but only on social media, as we’ve yet to receive any official documentation from the EFCC despite repeated requests,” Adeyanju stated.
Addressing claims circulating online regarding the motive behind the arrest, Oyewale insisted that Otse’s arrest was lawful and unrelated to his critical comments about the Commission. He said the petitions raised serious allegations of financial misconduct that could not be ignored.
“The suspect’s past attacks on the EFCC’s operations are noted but not the reason for his arrest. These will be handled by the appropriate agency,” he said.
He also urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the Commission to carry out its duties without interference.
“The EFCC welcomes public interest in its work but asks that assumptions about its intentions be put to rest. Investigations are ongoing, and charges will be filed once concluded,” he added.
Otse’s arrest has sparked widespread outcry, with many supporters demanding his release. On Monday, protesters gathered at the GTB headquarters in Abuja to show solidarity. Political figures, including Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, as well as legal professionals and fans, have also criticised the arrest.
