EFCC Arrests VeryDarkMan Over Cyberstalking Allegations, Plans Legal Action After Multiple Petitions

Introduction:

The popular Nigerian social media influencer and activist, Martins Otse, widely known by his online alias VeryDarkMan (VDM), has found himself at the center of legal controversy. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s top anti-corruption and financial crimes agency, has officially confirmed his arrest. According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the arrest was not an arbitrary move but a response to multiple formal petitions received by the commission accusing Otse of cyberstalking.

The incident has sparked heated reactions across social media platforms, with fans, critics, and legal experts weighing in. The story of VeryDarkMan’s arrest is not just a headline—it’s a mirror reflecting the growing tension between freedom of expression in the digital space and the legal boundaries that content creators must navigate.

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Who is VeryDarkMan?

Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, is no stranger to controversy or public spotlight. His rise to fame stemmed from his unfiltered, bold, and oftentimes scathing commentary on trending political issues, celebrities, and societal behaviors in Nigeria. His videos, typically posted on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), have garnered him a massive following.

A vocal critic of social injustice, corruption, and celebrity culture, VDM has positioned himself as a digital watchdog, fearlessly calling out individuals and institutions. However, with great influence comes heightened scrutiny—and for Otse, the lines between activism, criticism, and defamation have increasingly come under legal examination.

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Details of the Arrest

According to a statement made by Dele Oyewale of the EFCC on Monday, May 5, 2025, VeryDarkMan was taken into custody after multiple complainants filed petitions against him. The central allegation involves cyberstalking, a serious offense under Nigerian law that encompasses the use of digital platforms to harass, intimidate, or defame others.

Oyewale explained:

“We arrested him to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners. We will release him when he meets the bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible. We are law-abiding.”

This statement confirms that the EFCC plans to proceed with formal charges once Otse fulfills the bail requirements, underscoring the seriousness of the case.

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What is Cyberstalking Under Nigerian Law?

Cyberstalking, as defined in Nigeria’s Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015, includes actions such as sending messages or content via electronic means with the intent to intimidate, harass, or cause emotional distress. The offense may result in a fine, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity and the impact on the victim.

Legal analysts suggest that the EFCC’s involvement indicates that the allegations likely extend beyond routine online disputes. The complainants must have presented substantial evidence, including possibly screenshots, voice notes, and video recordings, to prompt such action.

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Public Reaction: Divided Opinions

The arrest has created a stir across Nigeria, especially on platforms where VDM has a dominant presence. While many are demanding his immediate release, others argue that content creators, no matter how influential, must be held accountable for overstepping ethical and legal boundaries.

Supporters describe Otse as a brave voice in an environment where many fear speaking out. They claim that his arrest is an attempt to muzzle dissent and silence a growing population of youth who rely on social media for advocacy.

On the other hand, critics assert that the law applies equally to everyone. If his content caused reputational or psychological harm, then the legal system has every right to intervene.

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The Role of the EFCC in Cybercrime Cases

While the EFCC is primarily tasked with tackling economic and financial crimes like fraud, money laundering, and embezzlement, it has increasingly begun handling cases involving digital misconduct, particularly when such activities have financial or reputational implications.

In this context, the arrest of a high-profile figure like VeryDarkMan represents a broader shift in the EFCC’s digital crime enforcement strategy. It signals that cyber-related offenses are no longer being taken lightly, especially as Nigeria grapples with the global rise in online crime and misinformation.

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Potential Legal Consequences

If convicted of cyberstalking, VeryDarkMan could face the following:

• Up to three years in prison and/or

• A fine of up to ₦7 million

• Public apology orders or digital restrictions

• Permanent or temporary account suspension on some platforms if mandated by court orders

Legal experts believe that unless a settlement is reached between parties or a plea deal is arranged, the case may go to full trial. This would expose both Otse and his accusers to rigorous scrutiny, especially concerning digital content used as evidence.

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Implications for Content Creators in Nigeria

This arrest serves as a wake-up call for influencers, vloggers, and online personalities who may feel immune to the consequences of their digital expressions. As social media becomes a battleground for truth, opinion, and misinformation, legal frameworks are catching up.

Here are key takeaways for digital creators:

• Fact-checking and respectful critique are non-negotiable.

• Defamation, libel, and cyberbullying are criminally punishable.

• Public platforms are not private spaces—every post can be archived, traced, and used as evidence.

• Transparency, context, and accountability must guide digital activism.

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The Bigger Picture: Freedom of Speech vs Legal Boundaries

Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, but like every right, it comes with responsibilities and legal limits. Critics of the arrest argue that the EFCC must clearly differentiate between cyberstalking and civic criticism.

Advocacy groups such as Paradigm Initiative and Amnesty International Nigeria have historically raised concerns about the misuse of cybercrime laws to suppress dissent, particularly against journalists, bloggers, and activists.

If not properly handled, the VDM case could add to this narrative, possibly igniting international backlash against perceived state overreach.

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What Happens Next?

As of now, Otse remains in EFCC custody pending bail fulfillment. His legal team is reportedly working to meet the conditions required for his release. In the meantime, the commission is preparing to file charges in a federal court, which would mark the official beginning of what could be a landmark cyberstalking case in Nigeria.

Observers, legal professionals, and civil society organizations will be closely monitoring the proceedings. The outcome could potentially set a legal precedent for how Nigeria handles influencer-related cyber offenses moving forward.

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Conclusion:

The arrest of Martins Otse aka VeryDarkMan has thrown a spotlight on the delicate balance between social media freedom and legal responsibility. Whether he is found guilty or not, one thing is certain: this incident will have long-lasting implications for Nigeria’s digital landscape.

For influencers, activists, and even ordinary users, this is a crucial reminder that the digital world is governed by real-world laws, and that what you post could have serious consequences.