Controversial activist VeryDarkMan (Martins Vincent Otse) has been released on bail by the EFCC after spending five days in detention following his arrest last Friday

Controversial activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after spending five days in detention.

Also read: VeryDarkMan’s lawyer laments difficulty securing release despite bail announcement

VeryDarkMan was arrested last Friday following a visit to a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) branch in Abuja with his mother to address unauthorized withdrawals from her bank account.

His arrest sparked significant online reaction, with numerous Nigerians and prominent figures calling for his release.

On Wednesday evening, VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, took to his X (formerly Twitter) page to announce the news of his client’s release on bail.

Adeyanju also extended his gratitude to several individuals and groups who showed support during VDM’s detention. He specifically mentioned activist Omoyele Sowore, political figures Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, singer Davido, and various opposition lawmakers.

“VDM released to us on bail. Special thanks to @DAPLawFirm especially the head of our firm @Marvin_Omorogbe. Thank you Nigerians for speaking up for him,” announced VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju.

The lawyer also thanked the chairman of the EFCC for his openness to discussions throughout the period of VDM’s detention.

In his post, Adeyanju wrote: “VDM released to us on bail. Special thanks to @DAPLawFirm especially the head of our firm @Marvin_Omorogbe. Thank you Nigerians for speaking up for him.

“Thank you Egbon @YeleSowore. Thank you HE Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Davido, opposition lawmakers, etc. I must also thank the chairman of EFCC for indulging and listening to all my concerns since on Friday last week and his team. The struggle continues.”

The release of VeryDarkMan on bail marks the end of his five-day detention, and his lawyer’s statement acknowledges the significant public outcry and support he received during this period.