Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has been granted bail following his arraignment for impersonation on Friday. The bail has been set at N2 million, requiring two sureties in a similar amount. Additionally, the court mandated that VeryDarkMan surrender his international passports and any other identification documents.
The police charged Otse for impersonation after he appeared in a viral video wearing a police uniform. This incident led to widespread condemnation from the police, who announced an investigation into the unauthorized use of their official uniforms and equipment.
In a statement from police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the force reiterated their commitment to addressing such misuse of authority. They confirmed that an investigation was launched following the video’s circulation.
The bail conditions, detailed by VeryDarkMan’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, require that the sureties deposit their international passports and provide means of identification. The sureties must also sign affidavits assuring the court that they will ensure the defendant’s presence during trial. Prosecutors are tasked with verifying the addresses of the sureties, who must reside within the jurisdiction of the Abuja court and provide utility bills as proof of residence.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the misuse of police uniforms and the broader implications for public trust in law enforcement agencies.