The Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja has granted N2 million bail to social media critic Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, following his appearance in court on Thursday for allegedly wearing a police uniform without permission. The FCT Police Command, which announced the case on X, led the prosecution after a viral video showed VeryDarkMan dressed in Nigeria Police Force attire and claiming to be “CSP VeryDarkMan” and the “number one online police officer.”
In its statement, the police emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of official symbols and preventing unauthorized usage. The statement added, “Martins Otse is appearing in court today for impersonation, relating to the unauthorized use of NPF uniforms in a viral video,” with the FCT Command overseeing the case.
VeryDarkMan’s lawyer, Deji Ayedanju, confirmed that the court had set conditions for his release, requiring two sureties, each with an N2 million bond. The sureties must also provide identification, submit utility bills, and reside within the Abuja municipal jurisdiction. Additionally, they must deposit their international passports, and the prosecutor will verify the sureties’ addresses. The defendant and sureties are also required to sign an affidavit ensuring his appearance at all trial proceedings.
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