The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified why social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, is in custody, stating that his arrest followed multiple petitions accusing him of financial misconduct.
In a statement released by the Commission, the EFCC said it had invited Otse several times through his known addresses and communication channels, but he failed to honour the invitations. The Commission noted that the EFCC’s case against Martins Vincent Otse is based on serious allegations of financial wrongdoing that require thorough investigation.
“These are grave allegations that cannot be ignored. His arrest is strictly in line with the Commission’s legal responsibility to investigate economic and financial crimes,” the EFCC said.
Otse’s critical comments not linked to arrest – EFCC
While acknowledging Otse’s outspoken criticism of the EFCC in the past, the Commission said his arrest had nothing to do with those remarks.
“Yes, we are aware of his public attacks on the EFCC’s operations, but that’s not the reason for his arrest,” the statement said. “If those comments require investigation, the appropriate law enforcement agency will handle them.”
The Commission confirmed that a valid court-issued remand order was secured to keep Otse in custody while investigations continue. He has also been offered administrative bail and will be released once he meets the necessary conditions.
EFCC urges public support in ongoing probe of Martins Vincent Otse
Addressing growing public interest and online debates, the EFCC appreciated Nigerians’ engagement with its work but asked the public not to jump to conclusions about the motives behind the arrest.
“The public has every right to be concerned about our operations, and we welcome that,” the Commission stated. “However, the EFCC’s case against Martins Vincent Otse should not be clouded by speculation. We ask that the Commission be allowed to do its job without bias or external pressure.”
The EFCC assured that once its investigation is complete, appropriate charges will be filed in court.
The EFCC’s case against Martins Vincent Otse continues to draw attention across social media, with many Nigerians closely watching developments as the probe unfolds.
