Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Blogger VeryDarkMan Over Defamation Allegations by Gospel Singer Mercy Chinwo

 

Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Blogger VeryDarkMan Over Defamation Allegations by Gospel Singer Mercy Chinwo

In a dramatic legal turn, the Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, has ordered the arrest of Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following allegations of criminal defamation by gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. This high-profile case underscores the rising tensions between digital influencers and celebrities regarding reputation management in the social media era.



The controversy began in February 2025, when VDM publicly accused Mercy Chinwo of financial misconduct. He alleged that Chinwo misappropriated $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu (Eezee Tee). According to VDM, Chinwo engaged in contractual violations and fund diversions, accusations that rapidly gained traction online.

Mercy Chinwo, renowned for her chart-topping gospel hits, vehemently denied the claims and took swift legal action, asserting that the statements were false, damaging, and intentionally defamatory.

Mercy Chinwo’s Legal Action: A Billion-Naira Lawsuit

On March 3, 2025, Chinwo, through her legal counsel Pelumi Olajengbesi of Law Corridor, filed a defamation lawsuit against VDM. The suit demands:

  • ₦1 billion ($1.2 million) in general damages
  • ₦100 million ($120,000) in punitive and aggravated damages
  • ₦25 million ($30,000) for legal fees
  • A full public retraction and apology published in four major newspapers for 14 days

This lawsuit emphasizes the serious financial consequences of defamation in an era where social media discourse can spiral into legal battles with multi-million-dollar implications.

Court Summons Ignored, Arrest Warrant Issued

Following the lawsuit, the Chief Magistrate Court issued a formal summons on March 5, 2025, instructing VDM to appear in person on March 13, 2025. However, the social media influencer failed to comply with the directive, prompting the court to take decisive action.

On March 13, Chief Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna issued a bench warrant, authorizing law enforcement agencies to apprehend VDM immediately. The warrant empowers police officers to detain him and present him before the court to face defamation charges.

VDM’s Legal Response: Claims of a Media Trial

Reacting to the arrest warrant, VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, criticized the court’s decision, stating:

"This case is more about publicity than justice. They are focused on a media trial rather than pursuing a genuine prosecution."

Adeyanju previously requested that he represent VDM in court, but the magistrate insisted on his client's physical presence.

This case raises pressing questions about:

  • The boundaries of free speech in the digital age
  • The legal accountability of influencers for their statements
  • The risks of misinformation and reputational damage in social media conflicts

While digital platforms offer unparalleled freedom to express opinions, this case underscores the legal consequences of unverified accusations, particularly when directed at public figures with significant financial and reputational stakes.

Law enforcement agencies are now under court orders to locate and arrest VDM, bringing him before the magistrate. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, including financial restitution, a public apology, and potential jail time.

This high-profile lawsuit sets a precedent for influencer accountability in Nigeria’s evolving legal landscape, where social media controversies can swiftly escalate into courtroom battles with far-reaching consequences.

This lawsuit signals a new era in celebrity-influencer relations, where defamation claims can carry billion-naira consequences. While free speech remains essential, unfounded allegations can lead to significant legal repercussions.

As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes are now on:

  • Law enforcement’s next move in executing the arrest warrant
  • VDM’s response and whether he will comply with legal proceedings
  • Potential out-of-court settlements or further legal escalations

This case is more than just a celebrity feud—it is a critical test of Nigeria’s defamation laws in the digital age.

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