NIGERIA: EFCC Has Legal Right To Hold VDM In Custody Like Any Other Suspect – Commission Clarifies

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has defended its decision to keep controversial social media commentator, Martins Innocent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), in custody, stating that it is acting within the law.

This clarification follows widespread public outcry questioning the legality of the Commission’s action, with many Nigerians, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, and activist Aisha Yesufu, expressing concerns over VDM’s prolonged detention.

In a statement released on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, the EFCC said it secured a valid remand order from a competent court and therefore has every legal right to detain VDM like any other suspect under investigation.

“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,” the statement read.

Signed by the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the statement added that VDM had been offered administrative bail and would be released once he meets all the conditions.

EFCC said Otse is being investigated following several petitions bordering on serious financial crimes.

The Commission noted that he refused to honour multiple invitations sent through his known addresses and communication channels.

“The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored,” the EFCC said.

While acknowledging VDM’s vocal criticism of the Commission online, EFCC insisted that his arrest was based on the allegations of financial misconduct, not his social media commentary.

“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,” it stated.

The EFCC called on the public to avoid making assumptions about its intentions and allow it to do its work without undue interference.

“As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed,” the Commission assured.

VDM’s detention has generated massive reactions online, with his supporters accusing the government of targeting him for his critical views. Others have called for transparency and respect for human rights in handling the case.