Legal Battle Intensifies as Court Issues Arrest Warrant for VeryDarkMan
In a growing legal confrontation between gospel music star Mercy Chinwo and controversial social media personality Martins Vincent Otse (popularly known as VeryDarkMan), tensions have escalated after a Magistrate Court in Abuja issued a bench warrant for the critic’s arrest. VeryDarkMan’s attorney, Deji Adeyanju, has publicly dismissed the singer’s N1.1 billion defamation lawsuit as “a complete joke.”
Court Orders Arrest After VeryDarkMan Fails to Appear
According to reports from VESTADAILY.NET, the Wuse Zone 6 Magistrate Court in Abuja issued the arrest warrant on Thursday, March 13, 2025, citing “criminal defamation” against Chinwo’s reputation. The warrant follows VeryDarkMan’s failure to respond to a court summons issued on March 5, 2025.
Legal experts from the Nigerian Bar Association note that bench warrants are typically issued when defendants fail to appear after proper service of court processes, escalating what began as a civil matter into potential criminal proceedings.
N1.1 Billion Damages Sought in Separate Civil Action
In addition to the criminal defamation charge, Chinwo has filed a civil lawsuit in the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, seeking N1.1 billion in damages. The substantial claim stems from allegations that VeryDarkMan made defamatory statements on social media platforms where he commands a significant following.
The controversy centers around VeryDarkMan’s accusations that Chinwo was involved in a contractual dispute and alleged misappropriation of $345,000 connected to her former record label executive, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu (known professionally as Eezee Tee).
Defense Attorney Dismisses Claims in Media Interview
In a recent interview with African Independent Television (AIT), Adeyanju openly ridiculed the lawsuit:
“Pay N1.1 billion for what? Over what? I don’t want to discuss this issue because this is not a court of law. And again, I don’t want to reveal our strategies to the other side. So, we have no comment. It [the court case] is nothing serious… It’s a joke. It’s a complete joke,” he stated.
The attorney’s dismissive stance suggests a confrontational legal strategy as the case progresses through Nigeria’s judicial system.
Social Media Critic Currently Abroad, Challenges Authorities
Sources indicate that VeryDarkMan is currently outside Nigeria, potentially complicating enforcement of the arrest warrant. In a characteristic display of defiance, the social media personality has reportedly dared security agencies to arrest him upon his return to the country, boasting about his familiarity with the arrest process.
Understanding Defamation Law in the Digital Age
This high-profile case highlights the evolving landscape of defamation law in Nigeria’s digital environment. According to Digital Rights Nigeria, defamation cases involving social media personalities have increased by 150% in the past three years.
“The intersection of celebrity culture, social media influence, and traditional defamation law creates complex legal questions,” explains Professor Chioma Okwuosa of the Centre for Media Law and Digital Policy. “Courts are increasingly being asked to determine what constitutes fair comment versus defamatory speech in the context of online platforms.”
Implications for Content Creators and Public Figures
This case could establish important precedents for content creators and public figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. The substantial damages sought by Chinwo reflect a growing trend of celebrities using financial deterrents to combat what they perceive as damaging online commentary.
For content creators, particularly those focusing on celebrity news and commentary, the case underscores the importance of understanding the boundaries between criticism and potentially defamatory statements. The Content Creators Guild of Nigeria recommends creators familiarize themselves with basic defamation principles to avoid legal exposure.
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