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Nigerian social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was on Thursday, 15 May 2025, re-arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a five-count charge bordering on alleged cyberbullying and defamation of several public figures, including actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh, as well as music producer Samuel Oguachuba, popularly known as Samklef.
The matter, filed under charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/140/2024, was heard before Justice Musa Liman, following the transfer of the original trial judge, Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon, to another judicial division. The case had been reassigned in accordance with court procedures.
According to the charge sheet presented by the prosecution, the Nigeria Police Force accused VDM of using his Instagram account, @verydarkblackman, to post a series of videos containing offensive and defamatory content aimed at tarnishing the reputation of several individuals and public institutions.
Details of Allegations
One of the charges stated that on 13 October 2023, VDM posted a video allegedly threatening Samklef. In another video posted on 29 October 2023, he is said to have accused actress Iyabo Ojo of being involved in an inappropriate relationship with her own daughter — a claim that sparked widespread backlash online.
Further, on 19 January 2024, VDM was alleged to have accused Tonto Dikeh of misappropriating funds contributed for the ‘Justice for Mohbad’ campaign and of being the person behind the controversial gossip blog Gistlover. The prosecution claimed this content was intended to incite public distrust and damage her credibility.
In the fifth count, it was alleged that on 19 March 2024, he made videos containing insulting and derogatory remarks about senior law enforcement officers, including Deputy Inspectors General of Police and members of the National Assembly.
Also Read: I Was Unaware Spraying Money Was an Offence -Iyabo Ojo
Not Guilty Plea and Bail Conditions
VDM, who appeared in court in person, pleaded not guilty to all the charges read against him. His defence counsel, human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, requested that his client continue to enjoy the bail conditions earlier granted by Justice Olajuwon. The request was granted by Justice Liman, allowing VDM to remain free pending the conclusion of the trial.
The prosecution did not oppose the continuation of bail but emphasised the need for the court to ensure that the defendant refrains from further comments or social media posts relating to the case.
Trial Date Set
Justice Liman subsequently adjourned the matter until 24 July 2025 for the commencement of trial. Both parties were advised to prepare their witnesses and documents ahead of the hearing.
