Martins Otse, a controversial Nigerian activist known as Verydarkman, has been released from police detention in Abuja following days of legal intervention and public advocacy, according to Deji Adeyanju’s confirmation on Sunday.
The 27-year-old activist was held by the police on allegations of cyberbullying. Former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore highlighted Verydarkman’s case as an instance of police abuse of power, allegedly influenced by prominent figures seeking to suppress dissent.
Deji Adeyanju took to X platform to announce Verydarkman’s release, expressing gratitude to all who supported the effort, including Sowore and the legal team representing Verydarkman. He emphasized the collaborative efforts that led to securing the activist’s freedom after a contentious five-day period.
This marks the second arrest of Verydarkman this year, following a previous incident in January where he was detained following a complaint by actress Tonto Dikeh. He was accused of making derogatory comments regarding the late Nigerian singer Mohbad’s case involving Dikeh and her colleague Iyabo Ojo, which he referred to as ‘chasing clout’ after the singer’s death.
He wrote, “After five days of back and forth, we have secured VDM’s release. Thank you to everyone that made this happen especially Sowore, Kefiano & VDM’s wonderful lawyers.”
