Martin Otse, known as VeryDarkMan on social media, has been released after over two weeks in police custody. Arrested on May 22, 2024, Otse faced allegations of cyberstalking and bullying, leading to his arraignment at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Otse, a prominent social media figure, gained significant attention after a viral video showed him being greeted by supporters upon his release. He faced five counts of cyberstalking, including allegations against the Nigeria police and Nollywood actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dike, pleading not guilty to all charges.
The case drew widespread attention due to its implications for free speech and online behavior. Otse’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, applied for bail, but the police prosecution requested more time to respond, resulting in a bail hearing adjournment to May 29. Ultimately, Otse was remanded at the National Cybercrime Centre under police supervision instead of being sent to prison.