Court Orders Arrest of VeryDarkMan Over Defamation Allegations

Photo source: NigeriaStories
Photo source: NigeriaStories
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Summary

A magistrate court in Abuja has ordered the arrest of social media activist VeryDarkMan after he failed to appear for a defamation case filed by gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The case involves allegations that VDM made false claims about Mercy’s financial dealings with her former record label. The singer has also filed a separate N1.1 billion civil suit seeking damages and a retraction.

A Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following a criminal defamation case filed against him by gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.  

Magistrate Emmanuel Iyana, in a ruling on Thursday, Mar. 13, 2025, directed law enforcement agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to apprehend and bring VDM before the court. The order came after the activist failed to appear for proceedings despite a summons issued on Mar. 5.  

VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, pleaded for leniency, requesting that the court allow him to personally ensure his client’s attendance at the next hearing. However, Magistrate Iyana rejected the request and upheld the arrest order.  

The case stems from allegations that VDM made defamatory statements about Mercy on social media, claiming she diverted $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee. In response, Mercy presented documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, to dispute the claims.  

Her legal team, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi, argues that VDM’s statements violate the Penal Code and Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015. In addition to the criminal case, Mercy has also filed a N1.1 billion civil lawsuit against VDM at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, seeking damages, a retraction, and a public apology.  

The case has drawn attention to the legal consequences of social media statements and the balance between free speech and defamation in Nigeria.  

Join Our Inner Circle!

Be the first to get all exclusive content on women-related stories when you follow our WhatsApp News Channel.

Leave a Reply

Share Story

WATCH: SHATTERING THE CHAINS OF MISOGYNY

The women of Migoria had ignited a revolution, shattering the chains of oppression and unleashing a power that would forever change the city's landscape.

SHARE YOUR STORIES WITH US

Naija Feminists is committed to amplifying your voices, experiences, winnings, and struggles as a woman. Share your story with us via mail@naijafeministsmedia.org.ng . If you are a survivor needing urgent help, please contact any of the following agencies.

RECENT POSTS

SEE ALL, KNOW ALL

Stay on top of all issues regarding women. Receive the latest updates about what is happening with Naija Feminists, women’s stories, relevant opportunities, and our recorded impact in your inbox. It will take only a minute to subscribe to our newsletter!