A group of protesters converged on the headquarters of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) in Abuja on Monday, calling for the immediate release of popular social media activist Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The demonstrators, who chanted slogans and waved placards with messages such as “#FreeVDM,” “Activism is not a sin,” “VDM is the masses’ liberator,” and “VDM has committed no offence,” accused authorities of targeting the influencer due to his outspoken activism.
The protests, which took place in the nation’s capital, drew attention to the controversy surrounding VeryDarkMan’s recent arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of cyberstalking. The arrest has sparked a heated debate online, with many critics alleging that it was a politically motivated attempt to silence dissenting voices.
According to Deji Adeyanju, VeryDarkMan’s legal representative, the activist was ambushed and arrested by EFCC operatives within the GTBank premises. This claim has fueled speculation about the bank’s possible involvement in the arrest. However, GTBank has vehemently denied any involvement, releasing CCTV footage to refute the allegations.
In a public statement, the bank clarified that VeryDarkMan was not arrested on its premises and called for a transparent investigation into the matter. Despite this, the controversy continues to unfold, with growing calls from human rights groups and social media users for greater protection of free speech and civil liberties in Nigeria.
The protesters, who included supporters of VeryDarkMan and advocates for human rights, expressed their solidarity with the activist through various means, including chanting slogans and waving placards. Some protesters were even seen protesting in a moving vehicle, chanting “Free VDM” in Abuja streets.
The EFCC’s actions have raised questions about the limits of free speech and the role of law enforcement agencies in regulating online activities. As the debate rages on, many are watching to see how the situation will unfold and whether VeryDarkMan will be released.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of protecting civil liberties and ensuring that law enforcement agencies operate within the bounds of the law. As the protests continue, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the growing demands for VeryDarkMan’s release and for greater accountability from law enforcement agencies.
In related news, human rights groups have expressed concern over the increasing trend of arrests and detentions of social media activists and critics of government policies. They argue that such actions are aimed at silencing dissenting voices and stifling free speech, which is essential in a democratic society.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are calling for calm and restraint, urging all parties involved to respect the rule of law and protect the rights of citizens. The outcome of this controversy is likely to have significant implications for the future of free speech and activism in Nigeria.
