VDM Re-Arraigned on Fresh Cyberbullying Charges
Controversial social media personality Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was re-arraigned on Thursday before a Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of cyberbullying prominent Nigerian celebrities, including Nollywood actresses Iyabo Ojo, Tonto Dikeh, and music producer Samuel Oguachuba, popularly called Samklef.
VDM appeared before Justice Musa Liman, facing a five-count charge bordering on cyberbullying and spreading offensive content online. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Background to the Charges
VDM was initially arraigned on May 22, 2024, before Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon. However, the case was reassigned following the judge’s transfer to another division. The charges, filed under FHC/ABJ/CR/140/2024 on March 28, 2024, stem from a series of posts made on VDM’s Instagram account (@verydarkblackman).
Count 1: On or about October 13, 2023, VDM allegedly posted a video with threatening and bullying remarks directed at Samklef.
Count 2: On October 29, 2023, he reportedly made grossly offensive claims against Iyabo Ojo, alleging she was in an indecent relationship with her daughter.
Count 3: On January 19, 2024, he accused Tonto Dikeh of diverting funds from the Justice for Mobbad Movement and claimed she was behind the controversial Gistlover blog.
Count 4: On March 19, 2024, VDM allegedly posted videos insulting Deputy Inspectors General of Police and members of the National Assembly.
Bail Conditions and Next Steps
Although previously remanded, VDM was granted bail on June 10, 2024, under strict conditions, including a ₦10 million bond and two sureties who must be either senior federal civil servants or employees of reputable firms with valid tax records.
At Thursday’s hearing, VDM’s lawyer Deji Adeyanju requested that the court maintain the existing bail conditions. The prosecution, led by Victor Okoye, did not oppose the motion. Justice Liman upheld the bail and adjourned the case to July 24, 2025, for trial.
