A prominent global human rights organization that holds consultative status with the United Nations has issued a strong condemnation regarding the arrest and ongoing detention of Nigerian social advocate and media figure, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkBlackMan. They have described this action as a “direct assault on freedom of expression.”
In a recent statement, the International Organization for Human Rights Development and Environment (IOHRDE), recognized for its Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), called for the “immediate and unconditional release” of the activist.
IOHRDE honored VeryDarkBlackMan as “a symbol of truth, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice.” His grassroots activism in Nigeria has earned him acclaim for his efforts to combat corruption, abuse of power, and inequality.
By fearlessly addressing issues that affect the everyday lives of citizens, ranging from corruption and abuse of power to societal inequalities, VeryDarkBlackMan has emerged as one of the leading voices of grassroots activism and public enlightenment,” the organisation said.
“The silencing of such a voice is not merely a personal attack on him,” the organization said, “but a direct assault on freedom of expression—a fundamental human right enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and recognized under the Nigerian Constitution.”
The organization cautioned that the detention of activists for voicing their opinions establishes “a dangerous precedent,” erodes democratic values, and restricts the civic space vital for societal progress.
IOHRDE appealed to Nigerian authorities to uphold international human rights standards, adhere to due process, and safeguard dissenting voices instead of targeting them.
Reaffirming its dedication to justice and accountability, the group urged the international community to unite in support with those “who speak truth to power” and resist efforts to silence them.
The statement concluded with a series of advocacy hashtags:
#FreeVeryDarkBlackMan#
#StandForJustice
#DefendHumanRights.
On Friday, SaharaReporters revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) took VeryDarkMan into custody after he visited a Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) branch.
This arrest quickly sparked a wave of outrage online, with many people questioning the bank's possible involvement in what critics describe as a calculated effort to suppress dissent.
"VDM was locked inside the GTB exit door for over 5 mins to enable EFCC arrest him and his friend,” Adeyanju said.
“We will be taking legal actions against GTB for the inhumane treatment meted out to our client. We will issue a public statement soon."
Adeyanju revealed that his legal team, headed by Marvin Omorogbe, had located the detained activist and was actively working to secure his release.
The recent arrest has sparked renewed anxiety among observers, who see it as indicative of a troubling trend aimed at silencing dissenting views. This action raises serious questions about the increasing deployment of security and anti-corruption agencies as tools to stifle free expression.
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