Tensions are currently rising in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as Nigerian youths take to the streets to demand the immediate release of detained social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
Videos with slogans such as “Free VeryDarkMan now!” are circulating on social media. The ones shared by influencer Jojo showed protesters blocking key roads around Garki and Wuse, chanting, and wielding placards condemning what they described as a clampdown on free speech.
The demonstration, which caused significant traffic disruptions, follows the controversial arrest of VDM by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) last Friday.
A source within the anti-graft agency told reporters that VDM was apprehended over allegations of cyberstalking, but the agency has yet to formally press charges or comment publicly on the matter.
The protests mark a sharp escalation in what has already become one of the most talked-about social media controversies in recent months.
While physical demonstrations take over Abuja, online, Nigeria’s influencer and celebrity communities have been deeply divided over VDM’s arrest.
READ MORE: Drama as EFCC Arrests VeryDarkMan
Popular comedian Deeone openly backed the EFCC’s action, arguing on Instagram that VDM had long blurred the lines between activism and personal vendetta. According to Deeone, the activist’s repeated “attacks and unfounded allegations” against public figures warranted legal scrutiny.
In contrast, a coalition of prominent entertainers, including music stars Davido, Peter Okoye (Mr P), and Afrobeat artist Seun Kuti, have publicly criticised the arrest, calling for VDM’s immediate release.
Davido, in a post on X, wrote: “The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging, makes one want to do more for the masses. FREE MY GUY.”
Peter Okoye amplified the message, sharing photos of VDM with the hashtag #FreeVDM, while Seun Kuti suggested that powerful religious and financial interests were behind the arrest. “As Federal government is running our country, all these big pastors dey run Nigeria,” Kuti said, accusing religious leaders of silencing critics.
Popular blogger Tunde Ednut also rallied support, resharing clips of VDM’s past advocacy efforts, portraying him as a controversial but necessary voice.
The polarised reactions underscore growing debates within Nigeria over the boundaries of free speech, defamation, and activism in the age of social media.
As of press time, the Abuja protests continue, with security operatives reportedly monitoring the situation to prevent escalation. There is no official response yet from the EFCC regarding calls for VDM’s release.
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