May 7, 2025 – Written by SpringNewsNG Media Limited

Amnesty International has strongly criticized Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the continued detention of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), calling his arrest and planned trial a clear attempt to silence dissent.

In a statement posted on its verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, the global human rights organization described VDM’s arrest, detention, and impending trial as a “blatant attempt by the Nigerian government to suppress dissenting voices.”

“Amnesty International strongly condemns plans by EFCC to put Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), on a sham trial based on bogus charges,” the statement read.

The organization went further to declare: “The arrest and detention of VDM by the EFCC is an outright attempt to silence dissenting voices. This case highlights the alarming extent to which Nigerian authorities are willing to manipulate the justice system to stifle criticism.”

VDM has built a large following on social media through his outspoken criticism of government corruption and policies. His arrest by the EFCC sparked widespread public outrage and renewed scrutiny of Nigeria’s commitment to upholding civil liberties.

So far, the EFCC has not publicly disclosed specific charges against VDM, raising serious questions about the legality and transparency of his detention.

Human rights advocates and civil society groups say VDM’s case is part of a broader pattern of state repression targeting activists, journalists, and critics of the government.

Amnesty International’s statement adds to the growing international pressure on Nigerian authorities to respect freedom of expression and adhere to the rule of law.

SaharaReporters reported on Tuesday that VDM underwent a second round of interrogation, this time reportedly focused on recent social media posts in which he accused the EFCC of systemic corruption.

According to sources, VDM’s legal representative, Barrister Marvin Omorogbe from Deji Adeyanju’s law firm, was present during the interrogation, which lasted from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Despite legal efforts, bail had not been granted as of Tuesday evening. Lawyer Deji Adeyanju confirmed to SaharaReporters at approximately 5:40 p.m. that VDM remained in EFCC custody, but added that the legal team was actively pursuing his release.