On May 5, 2025, TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) shared a powerful moment from the streets of Abuja on X, capturing VeryDarkMan’s (VDM) brother addressing supporters during a #FreeVDM protest. The image shows a young man in a black cap and shirt, gesturing passionately while surrounded by a small crowd, including a woman recording on her phone. The protest, sparked by the arrest of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan) by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has drawn significant attention, with Nigerians from Lagos to Abuja rallying for his release.
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VeryDarkMan’s brother gives update at the Free VeryDarkMan protest on the streets of Abuja pic.twitter.com/OIVbUQRebo
— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) May 5, 2025
The image shared by @Teeniiola depicts a moment from the #FreeVDM protest in Abuja, where supporters gathered to demand the release of Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan. In the photo, VDM’s brother stands on a grassy area, wearing a black cap and shirt, speaking with expressive hand gestures. A small crowd surrounds him, including a woman in a beige cap recording the speech on her phone, while others listen attentively. The backdrop includes trees, streetlights, and a billboard, suggesting an open public space near the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.
Read also: VeryDarkMan launches NGO to reform public education, seeks support
The X post by @Teeniiola garnered significant engagement, with replies reflecting a mix of support, concern, and criticism. @SitoEmmy highlighted the dedication of VDM’s supporters, noting, “Wow oo, some people traveled from Lagos to Abuja for the protest. Massive love for VDM ❤️❤️❤️❤️.” Others, like @biigbosco, praised VDM’s role in Nigerian society, stating, “VDM is not the problem of this country, he’s one of the best solutions we’ve had in a long time! #FREEDVM.”
However, not all reactions were positive. @Jahbwai criticized the protest’s lack of organization, writing, “They are not organized how would the authority take us serious?” @acububad commented on VDM’s brother’s demeanor, saying, “This VDM brother dey fear one kind shaa,” while @Dre_DD humorously noted the brother’s casual attire, asking, “Where him suit and native dey? 😂” @ParasRodolfo took a harsher tone, labeling the protesters “jobless youths” and mocking the brother’s appearance, saying, “Oga you no wear your suit again ??😂😂.”
Martins Vincent Otse, aka VeryDarkMan, is a polarizing figure known for his outspoken activism against corruption and injustice in Nigeria. His arrest on May 2, 2025, while visiting a GTBank branch with his mother, sparked outrage, especially after reports that he was detained without immediate charges. BBC News Pidgin noted that VDM’s supporters, including his mentees, attempted to bring him food at the EFCC office but were denied access.
Read also: Court orders VeryDarkMan to pay Falanas N500m, delete defamatory posts
The EFCC later confirmed on May 6, 2025, via X (@officialEFCC), that Otse was being held under a remand order and could be released upon meeting bail conditions. Public figures like Peter Obi and Davido have voiced support for VDM, with Obi condemning the arrest as a violation of constitutional rights. The #FreeVDM campaign has also gained traction online, with posts like @Choji_ES’s stating, “He’s loud but for the voiceless. He’s stubborn but for the truth.” However, the EFCC insists that the arrest is tied to serious financial allegations, not VDM’s activism.
