Nigerian music superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has spoken out strongly in support of detained online activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
The controversial social media figure was reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday, sparking outrage and debate across Nigeria’s digital platforms.
As the EFCC remains largely silent about the details surrounding the arrest, many Nigerians have begun to demand answers — and now, Davido has joined the chorus of voices calling for VDM’s immediate release.
Taking to his verified X (formerly Twitter) page, Davido praised the impact VeryDarkMan has had on everyday Nigerians, despite the controversies that have trailed his outspoken online presence.
The singer highlighted how the overwhelming public support for VDM shows just how much his activism resonates with the masses.
“Outside all the noise, it’s good to see that the good one does actually impacts lives and people actually appreciate!” Davido wrote.
“The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging… makes one want to do more for the masses. FREE MY GUY.”
The incident has reignited conversations around freedom of speech in Nigeria and the growing clampdown on voices of dissent.
VeryDarkMan is well-known for using his platform to criticize corruption, social injustices, and, most recently, the excesses of religious leaders.
His blunt style and controversial takes have earned him both devoted supporters and powerful enemies, making his arrest all the more polarizing.
Seun Kuti, Afrobeat musician and son of the late Fela Kuti, also weighed in on the situation. In a series of posts, Seun alleged that VDM’s arrest may not be solely tied to EFCC investigations but could have deeper, more targeted motivations.
He hinted that religious institutions may be behind the move to silence the activist, especially after his recent criticisms of high-profile pastors and megachurches in Nigeria.
“VDM’s lawyer is my lawyer,” Seun disclosed. “We’re currently entangled in a case with GTB and other banks. There’s no bank in Nigeria that’s a good bank.”
Continuing his assertion, Seun Kuti accused religious authorities of wielding political influence to suppress dissent.
“As Federal Government is running our country, all these big pastors dey run Nigeria,” he stated. “The people of God are the ones fighting VDM for speaking the truth.”
His comments further fueled the ongoing online debate about the blurred lines between religion, politics, and freedom of expression in Nigeria.
As the public awaits an official statement from the EFCC regarding the grounds for VeryDarkMan’s arrest, prominent Nigerians like Davido and Seun Kuti are using their platforms to amplify calls for his release.
Their support reflects a broader concern about the treatment of social critics and the need to protect citizens’ rights to speak truth to power.
For now, the spotlight remains firmly on the EFCC and the forces behind the scenes — as millions watch to see what unfolds next.