ATIKU condemns arrest of VeryDarkMan, alleges abuse of power
5th May 2025
Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized the arrest and ongoing detention of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He described the situation as indicative of increasing authoritarianism under President Bola Tinubu's administration.
The EFCC confirmed Otse's arrest, stating it was based on multiple petitions regarding allegations of cyberstalking. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Atiku accused the government of using security agencies to suppress dissent and intimidate critics. He labeled Otse's detention as an abuse of power and a violation of constitutional rights, highlighting the absence of formal charges against him.
Atiku further noted that this incident exemplifies a broader trend of attacks on fundamental freedoms in Nigeria, particularly targeting those who oppose the government or align with political rivals. He pointed out the perceived double standards in how corruption allegations are handled, claiming that while critics face swift action, political allies with serious accusations remain unpunished.
He cautioned against normalizing what he termed "state-sponsored repression," asserting that such actions should not become a hallmark of Nigerian democracy. Concluding his statement, Atiku condemned the Tinubu administration's crackdown on opposition voices as disgraceful and an affront to democratic principles, calling for resistance against these actions.