By Okpere Sharon Omoye
Protesters Storm GTBank Headquarters in Abuja, Demand Release of Activist VeryDarkMan
Protesters on Monday besieged the headquarters of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) in Abuja, calling for the immediate release of popular social media activist Martins Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
The demonstrators accused authorities of targeting the outspoken influencer over his activism and demanded an end to what they described as politically motivated harassment.
Chanting slogans and waving placards with inscriptions such as “#FreeVDM,” “Activism is not a sin,” “VDM is the masses’ liberator,” and “VDM has committed no offence,” the protesters rallied around the belief that Otse’s arrest was an attempt to silence dissenting voices in the country.
Some of the demonstrators were seen riding through the streets in a moving vehicle, continuing their chants of “Free VDM!” as they drew attention from onlookers and passersby.
Otse was arrested last week by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations of cyberstalking, a move that has triggered widespread backlash on social media and among human rights groups.
Many critics have condemned the arrest as an abuse of state power and an infringement on free speech.
According to Otse’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, the activist was allegedly ambushed and apprehended by EFCC officials within the premises of Gtbank.
This claim has fueled speculation about the bank’s possible involvement in the incident and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the arrest.
GTBank, however, has denied any role in the arrest. In a statement released to the public, the bank said Otse was not arrested inside its premises.
It also shared CCTV footage to support its position and called for a transparent investigation to clarify the facts.
“GTBank remains committed to the protection of the rights and safety of all individuals within its premises. We categorically state that the arrest did not occur within any of our branches,” the bank said in its statement.
As the controversy continues to unfold, pressure is mounting on the EFCC and government authorities to explain the reasons behind Otse’s detention.
Meanwhile, human rights groups and online communities are amplifying calls for greater protection of freedom of expression and civil liberties in Nigeria.
The EFCC has yet to issue a detailed statement on the specific charges or evidence against the activist.
VeryDarkMan has gained a significant following online for his commentary on social injustice, governance, and public accountability. His arrest marks the latest flashpoint in an ongoing debate about free speech in Nigeria.
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