The Power of Digital Voices: The VeryDarkMan vs. Guarantee Trust Bank Saga

In recent weeks, Nigeria has witnessed a striking intersection of activism, financial accountability, and the growing influence of social media through the lens of one man’s experience: Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). What began as a customer complaint about unauthorized bank transactions escalated into a national controversy that has gripped millions, led to mass account closures, and provoked a nationwide discussion about ethics, justice, and the rights of citizens in the digital age.

In April 2025, VDM took to his social media platforms to share an alarming discovery. His mother, a GTBank account holder, had been experiencing multiple unauthorized debits. According to VDM, over seven loan deductions were made from her account, despite her never applying for any loan. This wasn’t just about missing money, it was about justice, responsibility, and trust. As a public figure with a reputation for blunt truth-telling, VDM didn’t hold back. He exposed the situation online, tagged GTBank, and asked tough questions, questions many Nigerians ask in silence:

“How secure are our banks? Who’s responsible when errors or fraud happen? And how many people are silently suffering without a platform to speak out?”

On May 2, 2025, shortly after visiting GTBank to resolve the issue, VDM and his associate were arrested at gunpoint by operatives believed to be from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). According to his lawyer, the two were blindfolded, forcibly taken into custody, and detained without clear charges. While the EFCC later confirmed the arrest and cited “multiple petitions” against VDM, the timing and method raised eyebrows. To many Nigerians, it felt less like due process and more like intimidation. Was VDM being punished for challenging a powerful institution? Or was this simply a coincidence? For six days, the activist remained in detention, with limited contact with the outside world.

As word of VDM’s arrest spread, the internet erupted. The hashtag #FreeVDM quickly became a top trend across Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. But this wasn’t just digital noise, it spilled into real-life action: Two GTBank branches were reportedly set ablaze in Benue State, Over 100,000 Nigerians reportedly closed their GTBank accounts in less than 24 hours, GTBank’s mobile app ratings plummeted due to thousands of 1-star reviews, Protests and physical demonstrations broke out in cities demanding VDM’s release.

For the first time in years, Nigerians collectively expressed their frustration not just at a bank or agency, but at the systemic silencing of truth. In an effort to clear its name, GTBank released CCTV footage showing VDM exiting the bank premises, stating they had no role in his arrest. While this move was an attempt at transparency, many Nigerians weren’t convinced.

The footage, rather than calming the public, reignited questions: Was there collaboration between the bank and EFCC? Why did the arrest happen right after a bank visit? Should banks be more proactive in protecting and communicating with their customers, especially in fraud-related cases? The perception of injustice had already done its damage.

This incident is more than just a clash between a celebrity and a bank, it’s a mirror reflecting larger issues in Nigerian society. Here are some critical takeaways. Customer Trust Is Fragile: When a customer entrusts their money to a bank, that relationship must be sacred. Any hint of mismanagement or unaccounted-for activity can break that trust instantly.

Banks must not only ensure security but be transparent, communicative, and empathetic in the face of disputes. Another one is, digital Voices Are Powerful: VDM’s influence demonstrates that social media is no longer just for entertainment. It’s a courtroom, a protest ground, a watchdog. Institutions must understand that digital silence is not an option, a single voice can spark a revolution when injustice is perceived. Also, due Process Should Never Be Abused: Regardless of how influential or controversial someone is, the rule of law must be upheld. Detaining citizens without clear charges or proper procedures undermines public confidence in institutions meant to uphold justice. Another one is, Nigerians Are Tired of Being Silent: This saga is a wake-up call to all institutions, public or private. The Nigerian public is increasingly aware, informed, and ready to act. Silence is no longer guaranteed. The people will speak, protest, and demand accountability.

VeryDarkMan has since been released on bail, and investigations are ongoing. But the storm is far from over. GTBank may recover in time, and VDM may move on to other causes, but the conversations sparked by this event will linger. It’s time for Nigerian institutions to: Rebuild trust with the people, reexamine how they treat whistleblowers and activists, create safer channels for dispute resolution and transparency. Because if there’s one thing this story proves, it’s that the age of silent suffering is over.

By Oreoluwa Oloruntola