In a significant legal development, the Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Martines Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over allegations of criminal defamation against popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The ruling was handed down after VDM failed to appear in court following a summons issued on March 5, 2025.
The allegations against VeryDarkMan stem from accusations that he made defamatory statements on social media, suggesting that Mercy Chinwo was involved in a contentious contractual dispute and had misappropriated $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, aka Eezee Tee. In response to these claims, Chinwo provided the court with documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, aimed at refuting VDM’s assertions and asserting their damaging impact on her public image.
During the court session, Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna ordered the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to locate VeryDarkMan and present him in court to face the allegations. Despite an appeal from VDM’s legal counsel, Deji Adeyanju, who offered to personally bring his client to court, Magistrate Iyanna rejected the request, insisting on the enforcement of the arrest warrant.
Moreover, Mercy Chinwo’s legal team has initiated civil proceedings against VDM in the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, seeking a staggering N1.1 billion in damages. The lawsuit demands that VDM issue a public apology, retract his statements, and delete all allegedly defamatory remarks made against Chinwo and her brand.
This unfolding case highlights the increasing legal challenges associated with social media and the responsibilities of individuals in making public statements.
