Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has hit a legal roadblock as the Lagos High Court dismissed his preliminary objections in a N1 billion defamation suit filed by human rights lawyer, Femi Falana SAN, and his son, rapper and activist Falz (Folarin Falana).
Justice F. Azeez ruled on Tuesday, May 20, stating that VDM’s objection lacked merit. The court ordered him to pay N200,000 in legal costs—N100,000 each to Femi and Falz. The judge also directed VDM to immediately file his defence.
The case stems from a video VDM posted on Instagram (@verydarkblackman) on September 24, 2024, which the Falanas say defamed them and damaged their reputation. They are demanding N500 million each in damages.
Femi Falana was represented in court by lawyers Ernest Olawanle and Femi Akinyemi, while Falz appeared in person. VDM was absent but had legal representation from Marvin Omorogbe.
The Falanas are also seeking a perpetual injunction to stop VDM and his associates from making or sharing similar statements in the future.
Stay tuned for more updates on this high-profile courtroom drama.
