Verydarkman Breaks Silence After EFCC Detention Over Alleged Financial Misconduct [VIDEO]

 

Nigerian social media personality and outspoken activist Vincent Martins Otse, more popularly known as Verydarkman, has come forward to challenge what he describes as baseless and perplexing allegations of financial crimes leveled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). His recent arrest and subsequent detention sparked a flurry of reactions online, especially from his growing fanbase and civil rights supporters.

Following his release on Wednesday evening, the controversial figure appeared in a short yet emotive video shared by his legal representative, Barrister Deji Adeyanju. Clad in casual wear, with an air of calm defiance, Verydarkman addressed the allegations, highlighting what he sees as the absurdity of the situation. His main contention was simple but piercing: how does one launder money they do not possess?

“They’re accusing me of money laundering,” he stated bluntly. “But how do you accuse someone who doesn’t have money of laundering money? I’ve done a lot of charity work, and people keep wondering how I manage to do that. They don’t understand—I go into debt to help others. That’s the truth.”

Known for his provocative commentary on societal issues and his fearless online presence, Otse has carved a niche as a relentless critic of both political and social ills. He frequently wades into national debates, often using his platform to expose corruption, police brutality, and what he perceives as the hypocrisy of Nigeria's elite class. His most recent ordeal, however, marks a dramatic turn, bringing the critic himself into the center of the anti-corruption spotlight.

Supporters of the activist have described his arrest as yet another example of the state using institutions to silence voices of dissent. Critics, however, argue that transparency should be a universal standard, regardless of one’s social or political affiliations. The EFCC has yet to release a detailed public statement outlining the precise nature of the allegations, though sources within the agency suggest that the investigation is tied to suspicious financial transactions allegedly linked to accounts associated with the activist.

Despite the serious nature of the accusations, Otse maintained a tone of disbelief and even irony throughout his public remarks. With a laugh that barely masked his frustration, he emphasized his lack of wealth, insisting that his lifestyle and public works are often sustained through personal sacrifice and borrowing, rather than illicit funds. “Anyway, we are outside, with my lawyer of course,” he quipped, referencing his release and offering a nod to his legal counsel.

Barrister Deji Adeyanju, a long-time civil rights advocate himself, has voiced strong support for his client, describing the arrest as not only legally questionable but also morally concerning. “Vincent is being targeted because of his voice,” Adeyanju stated outside the EFCC offices. “They’re trying to criminalize charity and activism in a country that needs both more than ever.”

Public reactions online have mirrored the divided sentiment. Many took to Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to show solidarity with Verydarkman, praising him for his resilience and transparency. Hashtags such as #JusticeForVDM and #FreeSpeechUnderAttack began trending shortly after his video was published, with fans sharing clips of his past charitable deeds—donations to displaced communities, free educational materials for underprivileged youths, and public campaigns against gender-based violence.

Others, however, questioned whether there might be more to the story. A few voices within the legal and financial sectors cautioned against jumping to conclusions before the EFCC concludes its investigation. “Let the law take its course,” said one commenter on X (formerly Twitter). “The same way we demand accountability from politicians, we must also expect accountability from activists.”

What remains clear is that the saga has only deepened the mystique and divisiveness surrounding the man known as Verydarkman. A polarizing figure by design, Otse has consistently courted controversy—yet many believe this latest episode may be an attempt to stifle the momentum he has gained in recent months, particularly as Nigeria approaches a politically sensitive season.

EFCC representatives have neither confirmed nor denied whether charges will be formally brought against Otse in the coming days, maintaining that investigations are ongoing. The agency has come under increasing scrutiny in recent times for what critics allege is selective enforcement of financial laws, often perceived to be politically motivated.

For now, Verydarkman remains a free man—albeit one under the microscope. Whether this incident proves to be a bump in the road or the beginning of a prolonged legal battle remains to be seen. But if his latest comments are any indication, the activist has no plans to back down.

“Let them keep watching. I’ll keep speaking,” he said, signing off the video with a smile that blended defiance with unshaken resolve.