The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released Martins Vincent Otse, known on social media as VeryDarkMan, on administrative bail following his arrest over the weekend.
According to a statement issued by the Commission on Monday, Otse had been called in for questioning on more than one occasion, but he failed to respond. The EFCC noted that he ignored “several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication,” which ultimately led to his arrest.
The EFCC also clarified that Otse’s criticism of the agency had no bearing on his arrest. “While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks,” the Commission stated. The agency reiterated that Otse is being investigated strictly based on the allegations in the petitions received.
The statement continued by explaining that Otse is not being targeted for his online commentary but for alleged financial crimes raised in multiple complaints. The EFCC obtained a Remand Order to detain him legally and noted that he has now been offered bail, pending the completion of necessary conditions.
“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission,” the agency said. “He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also weighed in on the situation, calling for vigilance against what he called “state-sponsored tyranny.” He warned the public not to allow government institutions to misuse their powers under the guise of enforcing the law.
Meanwhile, the EFCC urged Nigerians to allow it to carry out its duties without interference or assumptions about its intentions. “The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue,” it said.
