VeryDarkMan Breaks Silence on EFCC Detention
Popular social media critic and activist VeryDarkMan has finally spoken out about the reasons behind his recent detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), revealing he was investigated for alleged money laundering activities.
The social media personality, whose real name has been kept private for security reasons, was taken into custody on Friday, May 2, during what should have been a routine visit to a GTBank branch in Abuja. He spent five days in EFCC detention before being released on Wednesday evening.
In a video statement released shortly after regaining his freedom, VeryDarkMan expressed bewilderment at the nature of the allegations against him.
“They think I am into money laundering. How would they put money laundering for person wey no get money?” he questioned, speaking in a mixture of English and Nigerian Pidgin. “I have done so many charities, and them they wonder how. They don’t know that I use debt for charity.”
The activist, flanked by his legal representative, added, “Anyway, we are outside, with my lawyer, of course.”
Public Outcry
His detention sparked significant public outcry across Nigeria, with fans and several celebrities staging protests at EFCC offices in major cities. The demonstrators demanded his immediate release, denouncing what they described as an unlawful detention without formal charges.
Social media platforms were flooded with the hashtag #FreeVeryDarkMan, which trended for several days as supporters questioned the timing of his arrest, coming after several high-profile exposés he had published on alleged corruption.
Rising Prominence
VeryDarkMan rose to prominence in recent years through his social media campaigns against what he perceives as injustice and corruption in Nigerian society. His straightforward approach to calling out public figures has earned him both admiration and criticism.
His charitable activities, which he now reveals were sometimes funded through personal loans, have further endeared him to many Nigerians who see him as a voice for the underprivileged.
Legal Position
While the EFCC has not released an official statement regarding his detention or the allegations, legal experts who spoke to TheDailyCourierNG noted that investigations into suspected money laundering typically involve scrutiny of financial transactions that appear suspicious.
“The Commission has a mandate to investigate unusual financial flows, particularly when they don’t match declared income sources,” explained Barrister Emmanuel Okonkwo, a legal analyst not directly involved in the case.
VeryDarkMan’s legal team has indicated they will address the media in the coming days with further details about the case and potential legal action regarding his detention.
The activist has assured his followers that he remains undeterred and will continue his advocacy work despite the recent challenges.
TheDailyCourierNG will continue to follow this developing story.
For related coverage, see our special report on “Social Media Activism in Nigeria: Impact and Challenges”
Reference
EntertainmentVeryDarkMan reveals why he was arrested [VIDEO]