Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has once again become a hot topic across social media and Nigerian news platforms.
Known for his fearless activism and online rants, the controversial figure is currently at the center of several major incidents involving law enforcement, financial institutions, and public personalities.
Here’s a breakdown of the latest reasons why VeryDarkMan is trending.
One of the most talked-about events was his recent arrest outside a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja. According to VeryDarkMan, he accompanied his mother to the bank to investigate suspicious deductions from her account.
However, shortly after exiting the premises, he and an associate were arrested by operatives allegedly linked to the EFCC. His lawyer claimed that he was blindfolded, assaulted, and wrongly labeled a criminal during the process.
This arrest caused a social media uproar, with many calling for accountability and even launching a #BoycottGTBank campaign.
2. Defamation Lawsuits from High-Profile Figures
In addition to the arrest, VeryDarkMan has faced legal challenges from prominent Nigerians. He was sued by human rights lawyer Femi Falana and media host Nedu Wazobia for defamation.
The court ordered him to take down videos containing the allegations and issued a restraining order preventing further defamatory content. These high-profile cases have only intensified public interest in his story.
3. Bribery Allegation Involving EFCC and Bobrisky
Earlier in 2024, VeryDarkMan stirred nationwide controversy when he claimed EFCC officials accepted a ₦15 million bribe from internet personality Bobrisky to dismiss criminal charges.
The explosive allegation led to public scrutiny, an EFCC internal investigation, and even a summons from the Nigerian House of Representatives to all parties involved.
4. Fake Missing Funds Claim as a “Social Experiment”
In another twist, VeryDarkMan claimed that ₦180 million had mysteriously vanished from his NGO account. Days later, he admitted the story was fake and had been staged as a “social experiment” to show how easily misinformation spreads. While some praised his intent, others condemned the stunt as unethical and misleading.
5. Criticized for Wearing Police Uniform Without Authorization
VeryDarkMan also found himself in trouble with the Nigerian Police Force after wearing a police uniform in one of his videos.
Authorities called the act a violation of the law and announced an investigation, further adding to his list of controversies.
What Happened to VeryDarkMan After His Arrest?
On May 2, 2025, popular Nigerian activist and content creator Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was taken into custody by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja. His arrest occurred at a GTBank branch, where he had reportedly gone to resolve some suspicious deductions from his mother’s account.
The EFCC stated that his arrest was in response to multiple complaints accusing him of cyberstalking, online harassment, and defamation through his social media platforms. According to them, his actions may have violated provisions of the Cybercrimes Act of 2015. VDM himself revealed that the authorities suspected him of being involved in money laundering activities.
His arrest sparked widespread criticism and protests, particularly among Nigerian youth and civil society advocates. Demonstrators gathered at GTBank branches demanding his release, accusing both the bank and the EFCC of targeting a social critic. Human rights campaigners, including Omoyele Sowore, condemned the arrest, claiming it was an attempt to intimidate a vocal commentator.
After spending five days in detention, VDM was released on May 7, 2025. However, he is expected to appear in court soon to face charges related to cyberstalking and defamation. This is not his first run-in with the law, as he has previously faced similar legal battles over his outspoken online activities.
Conclusion
Whether he’s seen as a fearless voice for justice or a provocateur pushing boundaries, VeryDarkMan has become one of the most talked-about figures in Nigeria today.
His confrontations with powerful institutions continue to fuel debates about activism, accountability, and freedom of expression in the country.