A magistrate court in Abuja has ordered the arrest of popular social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
The court took this action after he failed to appear for a hearing regarding allegations of criminal defamation against gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.
The Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, issued the bench warrant on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna directed the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to arrest and bring VDM to court. The order came after the blogger ignored a summons served on March 5, 2025.
Lawyer’s appeal rejected
VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, urged the court to reconsider the warrant. He promised to personally ensure his client’s appearance in court. However, Magistrate Iyanna rejected the appeal and insisted that security agencies must enforce the order.
When contacted, Adeyanju confirmed the development.
“Yes, a bench warrant has been issued against him for failing to show up in court,” he told Channels Television. “This is more of a media trial than an actual prosecution.”
Defamation allegations and evidence
The legal dispute stems from statements made by VDM on social media. He accused Chinwo of being involved in a contractual dispute and allegedly diverting $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee.
Chinwo, through her legal team, presented documentary evidence to counter these claims. The evidence included emails and payment receipts. Her lawyers argue that these documents prove VDM’s statements were false and damaging to her reputation.
Legal charges against VeryDarkMan
Chinwo’s legal representatives, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi of the Abuja-based law firm Law Corridor, stated that the blogger’s actions violate:
- Section 391 of the Penal Code
- Section 24(1)(B) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015
Civil suit Seeking ₦1.1 billion in damages
Beyond the criminal case, Chinwo has also filed a civil suit against VDM at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja. She is seeking ₦1.1 billion in damages. Additionally, she has asked the court to order VDM to:
- Delete all alleged defamatory statements
- Issue a public retraction
- Apologize publicly for his claims
Public reactions and next steps
The case has sparked debates on social media, with supporters and critics sharing their opinions. Some argue that VDM is being unfairly targeted, while others insist that spreading false information should have legal consequences.
As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes are on how authorities will enforce the court’s order and whether VDM will comply with the summons.
