Protests have erupted in Abuja, with youths gathering at various locations, including a branch of GTBank, demanding the release of Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan.
The protests have led to disruptions, including roadblocks in several areas.
VeryDarkMan, a prominent Nigerian activist and social media influencer, was arrested on May 2, 2025, following an incident at a GTBank branch in Abuja.
He allegedly complained about unauthorized deductions from his mother’s bank account, which led to his detention.
His arrest has sparked widespread outrage among his supporters, who view it as an infringement on free speech and a targeted attack on activism.
In response to his detention, protests have intensified, with demonstrators calling for his immediate release.
See videos below:
#FreeVDM protest at GT Bank, Area 3 branch in Abuja
pic.twitter.com/nmqHx63r98
— Africa Independent Television (@AIT_Online) May 5, 2025
Free Verydarkman protest ongoing at the GTBank branch in Abuja…VDM is a force man !! See energy!!
pic.twitter.com/ndhpHnVeR1
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) May 5, 2025
As at the time of filing this report, the EFCC and GTBank is yet to release an official statement regarding the arrest.