In a video that has rapidly circulated online, VDM claimed that the EFCC is still in possession of his mobile phone and expressed his apprehension that it may not be returned to him.
According to VDM's statement, the anti-graft agency not only confiscated his phone but also allegedly logged him out of his iCloud account, thereby potentially gaining access to his personal videos and other data he considers to be evidence.
VDM issued a strong warning to the EFCC against disseminating his image with captions that insinuate money laundering without providing the complete background and context of the situation.
He stated, “My phone is currently with the EFCC, but I acquired a new one after my release. However, upon attempting to log into my iCloud account, I discovered that I could no longer access it.”
Directly addressing the EFCC, VDM said, “EFCC, I am open to establishing a friendly relationship, but a significant point of contention would arise if you publish the photograph taken of me and label it as pertaining to money laundering.”
He further asserted, “Should you post that picture with a claim of money laundering, then you are obligated to also disclose the full context surrounding it.”
“If I encounter my picture on your official website accompanied by a caption suggesting money laundering, you will be required to substantiate that claim. That will mark the beginning of our dispute—a dispute we will resolve in a court of law. It could potentially become a landmark open court case of its kind.”
Extending a conditional olive branch, VDM added, “If you genuinely seek a friendly relationship, then remove any association of that image with money laundering, as it constitutes a falsehood against me. I have no objections to any other content you might post—that is not a problem. In fact, I am even inclined to use your placard as my profile picture.”
Expressing concern over the handling of his personal device, VDM noted, “They did not merely keep my phone—they also logged me out of my iCloud account, which implies they now have access to all the data stored on that phone, including numerous videos and pieces of evidence. I have a strong premonition that they will not return the phone. And even if they do, the phone, for all intents and purposes, is lost to me.”
VDM's public statement raises questions about the EFCC's handling of his belongings and the potential implications of their access to his personal data, setting the stage for a potentially contentious legal battle if his warnings regarding the use of his image are not heeded.