Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the detention of Martins Vincent Otse, known popularly as VeryDarkMan, in connection with allegations of financial misconduct.
The EFCC stated that Mr. Otse was invited for questioning following “a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes.” According to the agency, Mr. Otse “refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication.”
In a statement released on Tuesday, the EFCC acknowledged being aware of “several unguarded attacks” made by Mr. Otse against the commission’s operations. However, it stressed that his arrest was not related to these criticisms, adding that “the relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.”
The anti-graft body affirmed its legal right to detain Mr. Otse as part of its ongoing investigation, stating that an appropriate “Remand Order was obtained in this regard.” The EFCC also indicated that Mr. Otse has been offered administrative bail and will be released upon fulfilling the stipulated conditions.
The commission appealed to Nigerians to allow it to conduct its work without speculation about its motives. “As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed,” the EFCC stated.
Mr. Otse, who has a significant following on social media, is known for his outspoken commentary on various issues, including those related to alleged corruption. His detention has already sparked considerable reaction online in Nigeria.
The EFCC is the primary agency in Nigeria responsible for investigating financial crimes and has been actively pursuing cases of alleged corruption across various sectors. This latest development involving a prominent public figure is likely to draw further scrutiny of the agency’s operations.
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