Protests Rock Abuja Over Arrest of Social Activist Very Dark Man

Demonstrators have gathered in Abuja today, May 5, 2025, to protest the arrest of social activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as Very Dark Man (VDM).

The protests are taking place near the Guaranty Trust Bank branch in Area 3 and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Jabi.

Eyewitnesses report that Otse was detained on May 2 after visiting a GTBank branch with his mother to address concerns about unauthorized deductions from her account. Protesters allege that he was apprehended without a warrant or prior invitation, describing the incident as an “abduction.”

According to a protester who identified himself simply as Iyanu, ‘it is not right, the Government is not god, they cannot do and undo, they need to be held accountable. This guy helps people and they just want to arrest him? For what? What is his offence?

Another protester, Precious, who i a nail technician and POS operator, said, ‘I have seen what Very Dark Man has done for people, and it is not fair for the government to think they can hold him and nobody will look for him. Free VDM now!”

The arrest, which took place on Friday, May 2, 2025has sparked significant public outcry, with the hashtag #FreeVDM trending across social media platforms.

Prominent figures, including musician Davido and activist Omoyele Sowore, have voiced their support for Otse and called for his immediate release.

As of now, neither the EFCC nor the police have issued an official statement regarding Otse’s detention. Protesters continue to demand transparency and the unconditional release of the activist.