It’s DSS, Police, EFCC Joint Operation: More Facts Emerge About VDM’s Arrest

More details have surfaced regarding the arrest of popular social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), revealing that it was a coordinated operation carried out by the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Otse was arrested last Friday at a bank in the Area 3 district of Abuja on allegations of cyberstalking. Witnesses claimed that he was allegedly manhandled by security agents during the arrest before being whisked away.

A top security source confirmed the joint nature of the operation and disclosed that the arrest was based on multiple petitions. “It was a joint operation by the DSS, the Police, and the EFCC. There are several petitions against him. After interrogation by the EFCC, the police will conduct their own, and then he will be handed over to the DSS,” the source said. “VDM has a long journey ahead of him. He is detained based on a court warrant.”

Despite claims by VDM’s lawyer, Mr. Deji Adeyanju, that his client was in EFCC custody, the anti-graft agency has denied holding him. EFCC spokesperson Mr. Dele Oyewale was not available for comment.

In reaction to the arrest, several youths staged protests across parts of Abuja on Monday, demanding VDM’s immediate release. The demonstrators, seen in areas including Wuse and near Berger Bridge, carried placards and chanted slogans such as, “He’s not a thief, Now VDM has blocked the road, Release VDM.” They also gathered near the EFCC headquarters in Jabi and vowed to take their protest to the Nigerian Human Rights Commission in Maitama.

Adeyanju, speaking to SK Blog, condemned the arrest, stating, “This is absolutely unacceptable. Demanding accountability is not a crime.”