“Fake News? BBC Rejects EFCC’s Dismissal, Defends Report on VeryDarkMan’s Detention”
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has reaffirmed its report on the arrest of Nigerian social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) denial of the circumstances surrounding the detention.
On May 2, 2025, VDM was apprehended at a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch in Abuja, where he had gone with his mother to address alleged unauthorized deductions from her account. According to his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, VDM was detained inside the bank’s security exit door for over five minutes, purportedly to facilitate his arrest by EFCC operatives .
BBC News Pidgin reported that EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed VDM’s arrest, stating it was in response to multiple petitions from various individuals. Oyewale allegedly mentioned that VDM would be released upon meeting bail conditions and that the case would proceed to court soon
However, the EFCC later took to its official social media platforms to label the BBC’s report as “fake news,” posting screenshots of the article with the “FAKE NEWS” stamp but without providing further clarification .
In response, BBC Pidgin stood by its reporting, emphasizing its commitment to impartial and independent journalism. The organization stated.
“BBC stand gidigba for we journalism and di facts wey we report for dis tori. We dey committed to impartiality, independent tori and we go kontinu to dey tok truth witout fear or favour. Tori wey we dey tell around di world dey guided by public interest and we dey folow highest editorial standards.
The incident has sparked public outcry and demands for transparency from the EFCC regarding the reasons behind VDM’s arrest. As of now, the EFCC has not released an official statement detailing the allegations or the status of any petitions against the activist.
VDM, known for his outspoken views on social issues and activism, has faced previous arrests on allegations including cyberbullying and defamation. His recent detention has reignited discussions on freedom of expression and the treatment of activists in Nigeria.
The situation underscores the ongoing tensions between media organizations and government agencies in Nigeria, highlighting the challenges faced in ensuring accountability and transparency in law enforcement actions.