Demonstrators have stormed the GTBank’s headquarters in Abuja, to call for the release of Martins Otse, popularly known online as VeryDarkMan, a social media personality.
The protesters, who gathered in large numbers on Monday, held posters that said, “Activism is not a sin,” “VDM is the masses’ liberator,” and “VDM has committed no offence.” They chanted “#FreeVDM.”
Recall that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFFC) recently arrested VeryDarkMan on suspicion of cyberstalking after he had called out Gtbank over unauthorized debits on his mother’s account.
The arrest has caused internet rage and prompted enquiries over the bank’s purported involvement in what detractors refer to as a targeted crackdown.
VDM’s activist-lawyer Deji Adeyanju, claimed that EFCC agents ambushed VeryDarkMan within the GTBank premises.
However, GTbank denied the allegation, stating that the social media influencer was not arrested on the bank’s premises, further releasing a video evidence and calling for more investigation to be done.
Just before his arrest, in the footage released by GTbank, VDM was seen on camera leaving the banking hall and making his way to the parking lot. The arrest itself, however, is not shown on the video.
Recall that VDM previously was charged with five counts of cyberstalking before the Federal High Court in Abuja in May 2024? The allegations were related to alleged internet harassment of Nollywood stars Tonto Dikeh and Iyabo Ojo, as well as the Nigeria Police Force.
After entering a not guilty plea, he was placed under remand pending his bail hearing.
Following this, he was also charged with impersonation by an Abuja Chief Magistrate’s Court later in November 2024. He allegedly presented himself as a police officer and dressed illegally as one, according to the prosecution. He pleaded not guilty plea yet again and was given ₦2 million in bail.
Further updates will be provided on this developing story.
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