The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has addressed the continued detention of social media activist Martins Innocent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following protests at its headquarters in Abuja and the Guaranty Trust Bank.
Responding to the situation, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale stated that the activist was arrested due to his failure to respond to multiple invitations related to petitions alleging financial misconduct.
Oyewale clarified that the commission had initially refrained from arresting Otse despite his “unguarded attacks” on the agency’s operations, noting that such behavior is unacceptable.
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“The EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Innocent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him.
“He refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication. The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission,” Oyewale explained.
He stated that although VDM had been granted administrative bail and is currently working to meet the conditions for his release, charges will be filed against him after the investigations are concluded.
“It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks.
“The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them. The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission.
“The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard. He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.
“The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome.
“However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed,” the EFCC spokesman said.
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