The arrest of Nigerian social media activist VeryDarkMan has taken the internet by storm. In a video shared on May 4, 2025, VeryDarkMan’s brother, speaking from inside a car, addressed the activist’s fans—known as the ‘Ratels’—and hinted at plans involving billions in their bank accounts. The post has sparked heated reactions online, with fans demanding his release and others questioning the claims.
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VeryDarkMan, whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, was arrested on May 3, 2025, outside a GTBank branch, as confirmed by CCTV footage shared by the bank. The arrest stemmed from a complaint he made about unauthorized deductions from his mother’s bank account, a situation that has since escalated into a public controversy. Initial reports suggested he was apprehended inside the bank, but the footage clarified that the incident occurred outside, involving law enforcement officers, possibly from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The activist’s arrest has drawn significant attention, with many fans and critics pointing fingers at GTBank for allegedly setting him up. This incident follows a pattern of VeryDarkMan’s outspoken criticism of institutions, making him a polarizing figure in Nigeria’s online space.
Read also: GTBank Faces Backlash After Allegedly Deducting VeryDarkMan’s Mother’s Salary Over NIN-Linked Loan
VeryDarkMan’s brother spoke directly to the activist’s supporters. The video, credited to @Mac_Avelli001, shows him sitting in a car, wearing a black cap and a pearl earring. He addressed the ‘Ratels’—VeryDarkMan’s fanbase—and hinted at a bold plan involving their collective financial power. The caption reads: “VDM Arrest: What I and All ‘Ratels’ are Going to do to our billions in our bank accounts— VeryDarkMan’s Brother reveals.” While the exact details of the plan weren’t explicitly stated in the post, the mention of “billions” has raised eyebrows. Some speculate that the ‘Ratels’ might be planning a mass withdrawal of funds from GTBank as a form of protest, while others see it as a rhetorical statement to rally support. The video’s tone suggests defiance, with VeryDarkMan’s brother seemingly determined to take action against those responsible for the arrest.
VeryDarkMan has built a reputation as a fearless online critic, often calling out corruption and injustice in Nigeria. However, his activism has made him a target for authorities and institutions. VeryDarkMan’s arrest might have been facilitated by his own actions, as he shared his location on social media, making it easier for EFCC operatives to track him. The activist’s fans, the ‘Ratels,’ have been vocal in their support, often using hashtags like #FREEVERYDARKMAN to amplify their message. However, as @sahtusii pointed out, online support needs to translate into actionable steps to make a real impact. The mention of “billions” by VeryDarkMan’s brother could be a rallying cry to mobilize financial pressure, but its practicality remains uncertain.
Read also: Skales Expresses Concern Over Trust in Nigerian Government, Praises Activist VeryDarkMan
GTBank has faced significant backlash following VeryDarkMan’s arrest, with many accusing the bank of orchestrating the incident. In response, the bank released CCTV footage showing that the activist was apprehended outside their premises, not inside, as initially claimed by his lawyer, Deji. This clarification has done little to quell public outrage, with users like @highdee4real008 stating, “@gtbank you guys don mess up oooo, una no fit wash una sef clean from this mess,” reflecting deep distrust. The involvement of the EFCC has also drawn criticism, with @grind_charts noting, “EFCC dey chase content creators, but politicians wey loot billions dey collect chieftaincy titles. Make it make sense,” pointing to perceived double standards in law enforcement.
