An Abuja Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6 has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of controversial social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over a criminal defamation case filed by gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.
Presiding over the case, Magistrate Emmanuel Iyana directed the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to arrest VDM and present him in court to face allegations of defamation. The court’s decision came after the defendant failed to appear despite being summoned on March 5.
VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, pleaded with the court to allow him to personally ensure his client’s appearance on the next hearing date. However, Magistrate Iyana refused to vacate the arrest order, emphasizing the defendant’s disregard for the court’s directive.
The defamation case stems from allegations made by VDM on social media, claiming that Mercy Chinwo was involved in a contractual dispute regarding the diversion of $345,000 belonging to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee. The singer denied the allegations and presented documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, to prove her innocence.
Her legal team, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi, argued that VDM’s statements not only tarnished her public image but also violated Section 391 of the Penal Code and Section 24(1)(B) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015. The case highlights the increasing legal scrutiny of social media influencers who spread unverified claims.
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See reactions below;
chi_.omaa : Very good!!!!! No be everybody he go use do Yeye!!!!!
iiam_mayor: Body of Christ dey arrest? Abi suppose leave am for God as prophet Jeremiah
drealomonor: 😂 You are still d victim nor be by court arrest 😂
frank.of.portharcourt: That VDM go still come back from China, drag both the Mercy and the Magistrate way give the order of arrest🤌🏽😂😂😂… a very stubborn boy I Stan🫡😂
adelakuntufayl: May our mouth not put us in trouble!
youngkizzys: Una one arrest court himself 😂😂