Lagos, Nigeria – Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has built a reputation as a fearless social media activist, often calling out public figures for alleged misconduct. However, his outspoken nature has now led to multiple legal battles, as several high-profile Nigerians have filed defamation lawsuits against him. These cases highlight the ongoing conflict between digital activism, freedom of speech, and the legal consequences of unverified claims.
Legal Actions Against VeryDarkMan
One of the most notable lawsuits comes from gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, who filed a ₦1.1 billion defamation case against VeryDarkMan. She accused him of falsely claiming that she diverted funds from her concerts instead of remitting them to her former record label. Chinwo has denied any wrongdoing, arguing that the accusations have harmed her public image and career.
On March 13, 2025, a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja issued a warrant for VeryDarkMan’s arrest after he failed to appear for a hearing related to Chinwo’s lawsuit. The court also placed a restraining order on him, preventing further defamatory statements against the singer.
Femi Falana, a senior advocate and human rights lawyer, along with his son, musician Falz, has also taken legal action against VeryDarkMan. The lawsuit stems from allegations that they accepted a ₦10 million bribe from cross-dresser Bobrisky. VeryDarkMan had shared an audio recording in which Bobrisky allegedly claimed the Falanas contacted her while she was in detention. Both Falana and Falz have denied the accusations, calling them false and damaging to their reputations. They are now demanding that VeryDarkMan delete his statements, publicly apologize, and pay damages.
Media personality Nedu Wazobia has also served VeryDarkMan with a ₦500 million pre-action notice for alleged defamation. VeryDarkMan accused him of misappropriating scholarship funds from a non-governmental organization. Nedu, however, claims the allegations are false and is seeking damages for harm done to his image.
Another legal case involves Pastor Jeremiah Fufeyin, the founder of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry. The pastor initially sued VeryDarkMan for ₦1 billion, following the activist’s criticism of his miracle soap and water, which VeryDarkMan claimed was an exploitative religious scheme. However, in a surprising turn, Fufeyin withdrew the lawsuit, urging VeryDarkMan to “walk in righteousness” and be more careful with his statements.
The Broader Impact of These Lawsuits
The ongoing legal cases against VeryDarkMan have sparked debates on the limits of free speech in Nigeria. Some of his supporters believe he is being targeted for exposing corruption, arguing that powerful figures are using the law to silence critics. However, his critics say that public accusations should be backed by verifiable evidence, as reckless statements can cause serious reputational and financial harm.
Legal experts point out that Nigeria’s defamation laws are clear—any false statement that damages a person’s reputation can lead to civil and criminal penalties. However, they also note that freedom of expression is protected under the Nigerian Constitution, meaning the courts will have to determine whether VeryDarkMan’s statements were made in the public interest or were deliberate falsehoods.
With the rise of social media activism, this case could set a legal precedent for how Nigerians engage in online advocacy. If the courts rule against VeryDarkMan, it may lead to more caution among digital activists, while a ruling in his favor could strengthen freedom of expression in the country.
As the lawsuits proceed, Nigerians are closely watching how the courts will balance free speech, activism, and legal accountability in the digital age.
