The recent arrest of popular social media commentator Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has prompted a nationwide debate on the state of freedom of expression in Nigeria.
The move has drawn sharp reactions from youths, celebrities, activists, and legal experts, raising concerns over the misuse of cybercrime laws to suppress dissent.
VDM, widely known for his outspoken critiques of government policies and social issues, was taken into custody by the EFCC on May 2, 2025. According to the EFCC, his arrest was based on alleged violations of the Cybercrime Act, including accusations of cyberstalking and defamation.
However, the specifics of the charges remain unclear, with the EFCC yet to provide concrete evidence to defend their claims.
This arrest reflects previous instances where journalists and activists have been detained under similar pretexts. A notable case is that of journalist Daniel Ojukwu, who was held for over a week without trial after reporting on alleged financial mismanagement by a government official.
Critics argue that such actions reflect a broader pattern of using legal instruments to stifle critical voices.
Nigerian celebrities have taken opposing stances, setting social media ablaze and deepening the national conversation and controversies on freedom of expression.
At the centre of the storm is comedian Deeone, who ignited fierce backlash after publicly backing the EFCC’s move. In a video posted online, Deeone accused VeryDarkMan of “crossing the line” with his frequent and fiery takedowns of public figures.
He claimed the content creator wasn’t a true activist but rather a “clout chaser masking personal grudges in the name of justice.” “Activism isn’t a free pass for insults and defamation,” Deeone declared. “You can’t hide behind social justice to attack anyone you don’t like. It’s about time someone called him out.”
On the other side of the debate is Afrobeats megastar Davido, who sent the internet into a frenzy with a post many saw as a subtle but powerful show of solidarity.
Later, he made his position crystal clear. “Outside all the noise, it’s good to see that the good one does actually impact lives and people actually appreciate it!” Davido tweeted.
“The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging, makes one want to do more for the masses. FREE MY GUY.” His words struck a chord, resonating with millions who view VDM as a voice for the voiceless.
Cubana Chief Priest also weighed in, sharing a heartfelt post on his Instagram page that read, “We Just Dey Fake Happiness @verydarkblackman Our Man Is Missing,” while Paul Okoye of P-Square, Afrobeat revolutionary Seun Kuti and influential media personality Tunde Ednut amplified calls for VDM’s release, condemning what they describe as the increasing intolerance towards dissenting voices.
Street Protests and Legal Concerns
The controversy spilt into the streets as youths in Abuja staged protests demanding VDM’s immediate release. Marching from the EFCC Headquarters to the premises where he was reportedly detained, the demonstrators held placards with bold messages like “Release VeryDarkMan” and “Seyi Tinubu, Are You Involved?”.
The protests underscore widespread fears that the arrest is part of attempts to crack down on voices critical of the government.
Legal experts have also voiced their concern. Human rights lawyer Oke Ridwan noted that the Cybercrime Act has been increasingly used to target journalists and commentators, often without due process.
Amnesty International’s #TalkYourTruth campaign highlights the dangers faced by individuals expressing dissenting opinions in Nigeria.
The arrest has revived discussions about digital rights and the government’s attempts to control online narratives. Following the #EndSARS protests in 2020, which demonstrated the power of digital platforms in effecting change, there have been renewed calls for restrictive laws like the Anti-Social Media Bill, widely criticised as an attempt to stifle free speech.
As the debate over VDM’s arrest continues, one thing is clear: the fight for freedom of expression in Nigeria is far from over..
The arrest of social media commentator Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has triggered a national debate over freedom of expression in Nigeria. VDM, known for critiquing government policies, was arrested on alleged cybercrime charges like cyberstalking and defamation, though specific evidence is lacking. This incident mirrors past cases of detaining journalists and activists under similar pretenses, fueling criticism about the misuse of legal measures to silence dissenting voices.
The situation has polarized public opinion, with comedian Deeone supporting the EFCC's actions, labeling VDM as a "clout chaser" rather than a genuine activist. In contrast, celebrities like Davido and Cubana Chief Priest, alongside Afrobeats' Paul Okoye and Seun Kuti, have called for VDM’s release, viewing him as a voice for the voiceless and criticizing the increasing intolerance toward dissent.
Youth protests in Abuja and concerns from legal experts underline fears of government crackdowns on critical voices. Amnesty International's #TalkYourTruth campaign highlights the dangers to those expressing dissent in Nigeria, and the arrest has reignited discussions on digital rights and the restrictive Cybercrime Act. This ongoing debate emphasizes the persistent struggle for freedom of expression in the country.
