The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has explained why social media activist Martins Innocent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), remains in its custody—citing multiple ignored invitations over alleged financial crimes.
The agency’s statement on Tuesday followed days of public outcry, including protests at its Abuja headquarters and Guaranty Trust Bank, demanding VDM’s release. The activist’s detention has drawn criticism from prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale clarified that Otse was arrested due to his repeated failure to respond to invitations regarding petitions accusing him of financial misconduct.
“The 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,” Oyewale stated.
“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.”
Despite VDM’s frequent criticisms of the EFCC, Oyewale insisted his arrest was not retaliatory.
“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 EFCC confirmed that Otse has been granted administrative bail and is processing his release, but charges will follow after investigations.
“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.”
Oyewale urged the public to allow the agency to operate without undue interference, stating: “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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