‘How Can Someone Who Isn’t Wealthy Engage In Money Laundering?’, VDM Speaks After Regaining Freedom

Controversial social media critic, Martin Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM) has questioned why the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would accuse someone that is not wealthy of money laundering.

VeryDarkMan stated this in a viral video shared online after regaining his freedom from the EFCC detention over allegations of money laundering.

In a viral video, VDM expressed disbelief over the charges leveled against him, citing his modest financial status.

“How can the EFCC accuse someone who isn’t wealthy of money laundering? I’ve done a lot of charity work, and they’re wondering where I get the money from, not knowing I’m running it on debt,” he said while seated beside his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju.

Recall that VeryDarkMan was arrested last Friday and detained by the EFCC for six days, prompting nationwide outrage and protests.

His lawyer, Adeyanju, confirmed the arrest and later announced his release on bail.

“VDM released to us on bail. Special thanks to Deji Adeyanju and Partners, especially the head of our firm, Marvin Omorogbe. Thank you, Nigerians, for speaking up for him. Thank you, Egbon Sowore,” Adeyanju wrote on social media.

Former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore was among the first to announce VeryDarkMan’s release on X writing, “Thanks to the unrelenting efforts of all, VeryDarkMan has been released from unjust detention at the EFCC! He is with his ebullient lawyer, Adeyanju Deji.”

VeryDarkMan, known for his controversial takes on social and political matters, used the moment to reaffirm his commitment to activism, “You know what I stand for. I can never be locked up as long as my lawyer is by my side.”

His arrest triggered widespread condemnation from high-profile figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; music star, David Adeleke a.k.a. Davido, and several opposition lawmakers.

They all described the detention as a violation of his rights and called for his immediate release.

In solidarity, some of his supporters staged protests in Abuja and other cities beginning Monday, with demands for his release continuing until the moment of his freedom on Wednesday.

Adeyanju, in his post, also thanked the EFCC chairman for “indulging and listening” to his concerns.