Social media activist Martins Innocent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has been granted administrative bail by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC made this announcement on Tuesday via its official Facebook page, clarifying that VeryDarkman’s arrest was based on multiple petitions accusing him of financial misconduct.
According to the Commission, efforts were initially made to invite the activist for questioning through various known channels, but he allegedly failed to honour the invitations.
“The EFCC, in carrying out its statutory duties, invited Martins Innocent Otse following several petitions concerning alleged financial crimes. Despite being contacted through his known addresses and communication platforms, he refused to appear,” the Commission stated.
The anti-graft agency further emphasized that the allegations against VeryDarkMan are serious and cannot be ignored, describing them as “grave financial malfeasance.”
While acknowledging the public attention surrounding the case, the EFCC also addressed claims that the arrest was politically motivated or in retaliation for VeryDarkMan’s criticism of the agency.
“Though we are aware of Otse’s numerous verbal attacks on the Commission, we must clarify that his arrest was not in response to those statements. A proper legal remand order was secured for his detention,” the EFCC added.
The Commission also urged Nigerians to allow it to carry out its mandate without undue speculation or interference, assuring that if investigations warrant, formal charges will follow.
