VeryDarkMan Re-Arraigned for Alleged Cyberbullying of Celebrities

Social media influencer, Martins Otse popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was re-arraigned in a Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, facing multiple charges of cyberbullying prominent Nigerian celebrities. The re-arraignment comes as part of an ongoing investigation into his online actions, which allegedly involved spreading defamatory content targeting actors, musicians, and public figures.

VDM faces five counts related to cyberbullying, including accusations of defamation and harassment. The charges involve videos he allegedly posted on his Instagram account, “verydarkblackman,” where he is accused of spreading malicious rumors about popular figures such as actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh, as well as Nigerian music producer Samklef.

One of the charges includes VDM’s 2023 post in which he allegedly made offensive claims about Iyabo Ojo, including allegations of inappropriate behavior involving her daughter. Another charge involves his false statements about Tonto Dikeh, accusing her of financial misconduct related to the “Justice for Mobbad” movement. Additionally, VDM is accused of spreading insulting content about law enforcement and politicians.

During the court session, VDM denied all charges, pleading not guilty. His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, requested that VDM be allowed to remain on the same bail conditions set earlier by Judge Mobolaji Olajuwon. The prosecution did not object, and the court granted the request, allowing VDM to remain out on bail with the same terms, including a N10 million bond and two reputable sureties.

The case, originally filed in March 2024, was reassigned after Judge Olajuwon was moved to another division of the Federal High Court. As a result, VDM was re-arraigned before Judge Musa Liman, who set a new trial date for July 24, 2025.

The charges, brought under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015, have sparked public debate about the role of social media influencers in shaping public opinion and the potential consequences of using platforms to harm others.

In addition to the ongoing trial, VDM is reportedly facing an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), further intensifying the scrutiny around his activities.