Abuja, NIGERIA — Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) is grappling with a significant public relations crisis following the controversial arrest of activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The incident, which occurred within a GTBank branch in Abuja, has ignited widespread outrage among Nigerians, leading to calls for boycotts and a surge in account closures.
According to the report, on May 2, 2025, Otse visited the GTBank branch to assist his mother with banking issues. Eyewitnesses report that EFCC operatives forcibly apprehended him on the premises, an action that has since been condemned as an abuse of power. “He was dragged out like a common criminal,” one onlooker recounted. “It was humiliating and unjust.”
The EFCC confirmed Otse’s arrest but has yet to provide a detailed explanation for the incident. The agency’s spokesperson stated, “The arrest was in connection with an ongoing investigation. Further details will be disclosed in due course.”
The manner of Otse’s arrest has sparked a wave of indignation across Nigeria. Social media platforms are flooded with hashtags such as #BoycottGTB and #JusticeForVDM, as customers express their dismay. Many are threatening to close their accounts, alleging that the bank colluded with the EFCC in the unlawful detention.
A statement from GTBank has attempted to distance the institution from the incident, asserting that it was unaware of the EFCC’s actions. “We are committed to upholding the rights and dignity of our customers,” the statement read. “We are currently investigating the matter to understand the full circumstances.”
However, this response has done little to quell the anger. “Even if GTBank wasn’t directly involved, they allowed it to happen in their branch,” said a disgruntled customer. “That complicity is enough for me to take my business elsewhere.”
Otse, known for his outspoken criticism of government corruption and social injustices, has a history of legal entanglements. In March 2024, he was arrested on allegations of cyberbullying and defamation related to his online activities. Despite these controversies, he maintains a significant following, particularly among younger Nigerians disillusioned with the status quo.
His arrest at the GTBank branch has only amplified his status as a symbol of resistance. Supporters argue that the incident is indicative of a broader pattern of governmental overreach and suppression of dissent.
The fallout from this incident is poised to have lasting effects on GTBank’s reputation. Consumer trust, once eroded, is challenging to rebuild. The bank now faces the dual challenge of addressing public grievances while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Financial analysts suggest that the bank’s stock could experience volatility in the short term, as investors react to the public relations debacle. “Reputation is a critical asset in banking,” noted one analyst. “Any damage to that can have significant financial repercussions.”
The arrest of VeryDarkMan has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over civil liberties and governmental accountability in Nigeria.
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