The arrest and continued detention of controversial social media influencer, VeryDarkMan (VDM), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sparked intense public backlash, with protests erupting in Abuja and condemnation pouring in from prominent political figures, celebrities, and human rights advocates.
Mass Protest Rocks Abuja Over VDM’s Arrest
On Monday, scores of youths took to the streets of Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, protesting what they described as the illegal arrest and detention of VDM. The demonstrators, who were seen around the Wuse area near the Berger Bridge, vowed to escalate their protest by petitioning the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Maitama.
EFCC Confirms Charges Are Still Being Prepared
A source within the EFCC confirmed to Vanguard that VDM had not yet been formally charged in court. However, the Commission disclosed it is preparing multiple charges against him, based on several petitions alleging cyberstalking and other related offenses.
“As of today, VeryDarkMan has not yet been formally charged in court. However, charges are currently being prepared. Once they are ready, the public will be informed,” the source said.
Political Leaders Condemn Detention, Call for Rule of Law
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed deep concern over VDM’s detention without formal charges, describing it as a clear violation of constitutional rights. He labelled the incident a continuation of what he called a pattern of political repression under the current administration.
“This is part of a troubling trend. The Tinubu regime is engaging in a relentless assault on Nigerians’ fundamental freedoms,” Atiku said in a statement. He criticized the double standards in the justice system, noting how political loyalists with credible corruption allegations walk free while critics like VDM are aggressively pursued.
Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, also condemned the manner in which VDM was apprehended. In a statement via X (formerly Twitter), Obi noted that the arrest resembled a forceful abduction, raising fears over declining transparency and civility in law enforcement.
“If citizens begin to confuse lawful arrests with abductions, our national security and accountability structures will be fundamentally threatened,” Obi warned.
Youth Leaders Speak Out, Blame Poor Communication
PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, stated that most of the protesters were unaware of the reasons behind VDM’s arrest until shortly before taking to the streets. He criticized the delay in communication from the EFCC and the police, suggesting that it only fueled public outrage.
“Timely communication could have prevented the protests. The government’s delayed response shows a disconnect from public sentiment,” Osadolor remarked.
He further called on Nigerian youth to prioritize economic independence and voter awareness as the 2027 elections approach.
Human Rights Advocates, Celebrities Demand VDM’s Release
Noted activist and legal commentator, Richard Akinnola, also weighed in, stating that regardless of public opinion, VDM should either be granted bail or charged in court. “Even an armed robber has rights until proven guilty,” he said.
Top Nigerian celebrities, including Afrobeat star Davido and nightlife entrepreneur Cubana Chief Priest, have rallied behind VDM. Davido lauded the influencer’s impact on ordinary Nigerians and described the widespread support for him as inspiring.
“VDM’s good deeds are clearly appreciated. The support I’m seeing is powerful. Free my guy,” Davido tweeted.
Cubana Chief Priest, via Instagram, urged law enforcement to release VDM immediately, emphasizing that justice must not be selective or politically motivated.
Public Reactions Reflect Deep Distrust in Governance
The arrest has triggered waves of concern on social media, with many Nigerians describing the incident as indicative of a broader erosion of civil liberties. Online commenters emphasized that if someone like VDM could be detained in such a manner, ordinary citizens have even less protection.
Comments like “Freedom of speech is no longer guaranteed” and “Focus on real corruption, not silencing voices” were echoed across platforms like X and Instagram.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Democracy and Civil Rights
As VDM’s case unfolds, public attention remains fixed on how the government and EFCC handle the situation. The demand is clear: due process, accountability, and respect for fundamental human rights must prevail. With mounting pressure from both political heavyweights and the general public, the next few days could prove pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s democratic space and civil rights climate.
