VeryDarkMan Loses Objection in ₦1BN Defamation Case
Court Rules in Favour of Falana and Falz
A Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja has dismissed the preliminary objection filed by controversial social media figure Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), in the ₦1 billion defamation lawsuit brought against him by renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, music star Folarin Falana (Falz).
Presiding judge Justice Fimisola Azeez ruled that VDM’s objections lacked merit and imposed a ₦200,000 cost—₦100,000 each to be paid to Femi Falana and Falz.
Details of the Defamation Lawsuit
Origin of the Case
The lawsuit stems from a video posted by VeryDarkMan on Instagram on September 24, 2024. According to court documents, the Falanas claim the video contained false, defamatory, and damaging statements against their persons and professional reputations.
In the suit, each plaintiff is demanding ₦500 million, totaling ₦1 billion in damages. They also request a public apology from VDM to be published across his social media platforms and in a national daily newspaper.
Court Proceedings and Representation
Legal Appearances
During Tuesday’s hearing:
Falz was physically present in court.
Femi Falana was represented by lawyers Ernest Olawanle and Femi Akinyemi.
VeryDarkMan was absent, but was represented by his legal counsel Marvin Omorogbe.
Justice Azeez further instructed VDM to immediately file his statement of defence as the lawsuit moves forward.
Next Steps in the Case
The case has been adjourned to July 8, 2025, for further mention.
This legal battle marks a significant escalation in public accountability for defamatory statements on Nigerian social media, especially involving prominent public figures.
