In a statement released in Akure, Ondo State, Ikubese expressed his deep concern over the circumstances of VDM's detention, particularly highlighting the EFCC's failure to issue an official statement regarding the situation even 48 hours after the incident.
"While we await the EFCC to provide an official statement regarding the allegations against him, which led to his detention, I consider it important to express my utmost disapproval of the manner of his abduction. This cannot be termed an arrest," Ikubese asserted.
He further elaborated on the appropriate legal procedures, stating, "According to the EFCC Act, the commission has the power to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes. If the EFCC has evidence implicating VDM in such crimes, he should have been formally invited for questioning and then arraigned before a competent court of law."
Ikubese emphasized that arrest should only be a last resort, "If VDM fails to honor such an invitation, only then should an arrest take place. Even if the EFCC claims to have a warrant for VDM’s arrest, the manner in which it was executed—this embarrassing, demeaning, commando-style operation—is inappropriate, especially when the subject has not been formally served or resisted arrest."
Drawing attention to the lack of official communication, Ikubese pointed out the significant delay, "It has now been 48 hours since the abduction, and the EFCC has yet to issue an official statement on the matter." This silence from the EFCC has fueled speculation and heightened concerns regarding due process.
In response to the situation, Ikubese called upon the Federal Ministry of Justice, specifically the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, to intervene. He demanded that the EFCC be instructed to issue a written apology to VDM and his friend C-park for the allegedly demeaning manner of their apprehension. Furthermore, Ikubese set a clear ultimatum, demanding that the EFCC either formally arraign VDM in a court of law by Monday, May 5, 2025, or release him from custody immediately.
Extending his appeal beyond government institutions, Ikubese urged a broad coalition to speak out against such tactics. He called on "all men and women of conscience, civil society groups, human rights activists, religious leaders, and the international community" to condemn the alleged high-handedness of government security agencies.
Ikubese stressed the potential for wider implications, warning, "Today, it is VDM; tomorrow, it could be anyone," underscoring the importance of upholding due process and the rights of all citizens. His statement reflects growing concerns about the methods employed by law enforcement agencies and the need for transparency and adherence to legal procedures in all arrests and detentions.