Controversial social media activist and critic, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has allegedly been arrested by operatives of the Nigerian Police Force in Abuja. The development was made public by his legal counsel, human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, through a series of tweets posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, May 2, 2025.
According to Adeyanju, the arrest took place in the Area 3 district of the Federal Capital Territory and was reportedly linked to VDM’s recent online condemnation of a new generation bank. The activist had accused the bank of unauthorised withdrawals from his mother’s account, prompting a public outcry that may have triggered law enforcement action.
“VDM arrested by the police. Spoke to them before he was arrested. This is absolutely unacceptable. Demanding accountability is not a crime,” Adeyanju tweeted, expressing outrage at the incident.
In a follow-up tweet, Adeyanju further revealed: “A team of policemen arrested VDM. He was arrested with his friend C Park but they left his mom alone.”
The lawyer did not disclose which security agency carried out the operation but warned that legal action would be taken against the bank and the officers involved if his client was not released promptly.
“We will sue the new generation bank and the security agencies responsible for the arrest of VDM if he’s not released with immediate effect,” he stated.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Nigerian Police Force or the bank in question regarding the alleged arrest or the circumstances surrounding it. The incident has sparked reactions on social media, with many calling for transparency and due process in handling the matter.
VDM, known for his outspoken views and viral commentary on societal and political issues, has been at the center of several controversies, often clashing with authorities and public figures. His latest encounter with law enforcement raises fresh concerns about freedom of expression and the treatment of activists in Nigeria.
More updates to follow by Parrot Reporters as the situation unfolds.
