JUST IN: Protesters Storm GTBank in Abuja Over EFCC Arrest of Influencer VeryDarkMan

A group of protesters gathered outside a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja on Monday in response to the arrest of popular social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The demonstrators, mostly youths, waved Nigerian flags and carried placards denouncing what they described as a coordinated effort to silence a vocal government critic.

VDM was arrested on Thursday, May 2, shortly after visiting the GTBank branch in Area 3, Garki. His apprehension has drawn backlash, with allegations emerging that the bank collaborated with the EFCC to enable his detention. Activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju claimed that VDM was locked inside the bank’s exit door for over five minutes, allowing EFCC operatives to arrest him and a companion. He described the incident as an “inhumane setup” and announced plans to pursue legal action against the bank.

Adeyanju later confirmed that VDM was in EFCC custody and that his legal team, led by Marvin Omorogbe, had reached him. “Our lawyers are now with him, and we are working on securing his release,” he stated.

The specific allegations against the influencer remain undisclosed, but his arrest has intensified concerns about the misuse of law enforcement agencies to target dissenting voices. Known for his outspoken criticism of corruption and political elites, VDM has built a large following online, often sparking debate with his bold commentary.

The incident has prompted widespread condemnation on social media, with critics accusing both GTBank and the EFCC of enabling political persecution. Protesters at the Abuja branch demanded transparency and called for VDM’s immediate release.