There was a heavy security presence around the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office on Monday following suspicions that members of the public were mobilising to protest the arrest of popular social media influencer, Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

Martins Otse, known for his controversial takes on social and political issues, was arrested by the EFCC over allegations related to cyberbullying and defamation.

Commuters and petty traders around the area expressed frustration over the situation, lamenting the disruption to their daily activities and loss of income.

The access road to the EFCC office was barricaded, making it difficult for motorists to navigate and for customers to patronise nearby stalls.

A security source who spoke on condition of anonymity said that the police had deployed several officers to the area to maintain order and prevent possible unrest.

“We are aware they may mobilise large groups, including Almajirai, under the guise of protesting.

“The police deemed it necessary to act proactively.

“The country is in a delicate state where even small issues can escalate quickly,” he said.

A local trader shared how the situation affected his business: “Since morning, everything has been at a standstill.

“The police and EFCC operatives are chasing away motorists. Nobody can park to buy anything”, he added.

Another regular visitor to the area expressed her frustration, “We had to park far away and walk back just to buy fruits. I don’t even know who VDM is, why should I suffer because of someone I don’t know?”

However, it was not clear whether the popular activist, Deji Adeyanju, who had earlier threatened to storm the EFCC’s headquarters to secure VDM’s bail by 4 pm on Monday, as police dispatched their men at about 4:17 pm. (Daily Sun)