By Comfort Isaac
EFCC has finally given reasons for the arrest of Martins Innocent Otse, popularly known as Very Dark Man, VDM.
EFCC Spokesperson, Dele Oyewale in a statement on Tuesday said VDM was arrested for failure to honor series of invitations sent to him by the Commission over petitions of financial crime against him by people.
Oyewale said though the suspect has been making unguarded attacks on the operations of the commission; his arrest was not connected to those critical statements, rather the arrest are based on petitions over alleged financial crime saying that appropriate authority would handle the attacks.
He announced that Otse has been granted an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions; charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
The statement reads: “EFCC in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Innocent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him. He refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication. The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission.
“It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them.
“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspects being investigated by the Commission. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard. He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.
“The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm and torrential reactions to all of its activities are welcome. However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed.”
