The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has justified the detention of controversial social media personality Martins Innocent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, citing several petitions accusing him of serious financial crimes.
In a statement released by the Commission, the EFCC on Tuesday, revealed that Otse had repeatedly ignored invitations sent to him through known addresses and communication channels. “He refused to show up in spite of several invitations,” the statement read, adding that the allegations involve “grave financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission.”
Although Otse had launched public verbal attacks against the EFCC in recent weeks, the anti-graft agency insisted that his arrest was strictly based on the criminal complaints lodged against him, not retaliatory. “While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks,” the agency stated. “The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.”
EFCC emphasized that it acted within its legal powers to detain Otse. “The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained,” the statement said.
The Commission added that Otse has been offered administrative bail and would be released once all bail conditions are met.
Acknowledging the public scrutiny of its actions, the EFCC urged Nigerians to allow it to carry out its statutory duties. “The passion, enthusiasm, and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome,” the agency noted. “However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour.”
The Commission assured the public that it would file charges against Otse once investigations are concluded.
