The legal team representing popular Nigerian social media activist, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has expressed grave concern over the unknown whereabouts of his mother following his recent arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to the legal counsel, the arrest occurred on May 1, 2025, when EFCC agents reportedly stormed Otse’s residence in Abuja. Eyewitnesses and family members allege that his mother was taken alongside him during the operation. Since then, all efforts to locate or communicate with her have been unsuccessful.
“We are deeply alarmed by the silence and lack of transparency surrounding the circumstances of both Mr. Otse’s detention and the disappearance of his mother,” said lead attorney Barrister Olumide Ajakaye. “Her whereabouts remain unknown, and the EFCC has not acknowledged holding her in custody. This raises serious legal and human rights concerns.”
The legal team emphasized that no formal charges have been publicly disclosed and that they have been denied access to both individuals, in clear violation of constitutional protections and due process.
VeryDarkMan, known for his outspoken activism on social and political issues via online platforms, has faced multiple threats and intimidation in the past due to his vocal criticism of public figures and institutions.
“We demand the immediate disclosure of Mrs. Otse’s location and condition, and insist on the release of both individuals or that they be promptly charged in a court of competent jurisdiction,” Ajakaye added.