Court Orders Arrest of Social Media Activist VeryDarkMan for Defamation
An Abuja Chief Magistrate Court sitting at Wuse Zone 6 has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of controversial social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The arrest order was issued on Thursday following a criminal defamation case filed by renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.
Magistrate Emmanuel Iyana directed the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to arrest VDM and produce him in court to answer to the allegations leveled against him. The court noted that the defendant failed to honor a summons issued on March 5, which required him to appear for the proceedings.
Despite a plea by VDM’s counsel, Mr. Deji Adeyanju, who was present in court, Magistrate Iyana declined to vacate the arrest order. Adeyanju had requested the court to allow him to personally produce his client on the next adjourned date, but the magistrate insisted on the arrest warrant.
Background of the Case
The case stems from defamatory statements allegedly made by VDM against Mercy Chinwo on his social media page. The activist claimed that Chinwo was involved in a contractual dispute over the purported diversion of $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee.
Chinwo, aggrieved by the allegations, described them as false and injurious to her public image and reputation. She presented documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, to establish her innocence.
Legal Charges
The complainant’s legal team, led by Mr. Pelumi Olajengbesi, argued that VDM’s actions violated Sections 391 of the Penal Code and Section 24 (1)(B) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015. The team also filed a N1.1 billion defamation suit against VDM at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Chinwo’s lawyers prayed the court to compel VDM to delete, retract, and issue a public apology for the alleged false and defamatory statements made against her and her brand.
Implications of the Arrest Order
The arrest warrant for VDM highlights the growing legal consequences of defamation and cyberbullying in Nigeria. As social media continues to play a significant role in public discourse, the case underscores the need for responsible use of online platforms and the potential legal ramifications of spreading false information.
The case also raises questions about the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of individual reputations. While social media activists often use their platforms to expose alleged wrongdoing, they must ensure that their claims are substantiated to avoid legal repercussions.
Reactions and Next Steps
The arrest order has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some supporting Chinwo’s pursuit of justice and others expressing concern about the implications for free speech. VDM’s supporters argue that the case could set a precedent for silencing critics, while Chinwo’s advocates maintain that defamation laws are necessary to protect individuals from false accusations.
As law enforcement agencies work to execute the arrest warrant, the focus will be on ensuring that the legal process is followed and that both parties are given a fair hearing. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for social media activism and the enforcement of defamation laws in Nigeria.
The arrest warrant for VeryDarkMan marks a significant development in the ongoing legal battle between the social media activist and gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. As the case progresses, it will serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and responsibility in online communication.
For now, the spotlight remains on the court’s decision and the broader implications for freedom of expression and the protection of individual reputations in Nigeria’s digital age.
