An Ikeja High Court on Tuesday dismissed preliminary objections raised by controversial social media personality Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), in a ₦1 billion defamation lawsuit filed by human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, rapper Folarin Falana, also known as Falz.
Justice Fimisola Azeez ruled against VDM’s objection and awarded ₦100,000 each to both claimants, totaling ₦200,000 in costs. The court also directed VDM to file his defence without delay in the ongoing defamation proceedings.
Background of the Case
The lawsuit stems from a video posted by VDM on September 24, 2024, in which he allegedly made defamatory remarks referencing an audio recording by cross-dresser Bobrisky. In the video, Bobrisky accused Femi and Falz of perverting the course of justice — a claim VDM allegedly echoed on his social media platforms.
Legal Arguments
VDM had challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the alleged defamation occurred outside Lagos State. However, the Falana legal team, led by Ernest Olawanle and Femi Akinyemi, submitted a counter-affidavit and written address urging the court to dismiss the objection.
Justice Azeez ruled in favour of the Falanas, stating that the court has jurisdiction and that the objection lacked merit.
Claims by the Falanas
The plaintiffs are seeking:
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₦500 million each in damages, totaling ₦1 billion.
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A declaration that the Instagram post was libellous, injurious, and defamatory.
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A public apology to be published on all VDM’s social media accounts and in a national newspaper.
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A perpetual injunction restraining VDM and his associates from making further defamatory statements.
Courtroom Attendance
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Falz appeared in court.
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Femi Falana was absent but represented by his legal team.
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VDM was also absent but represented by his counsel, Marvin Omorogbe.
Previous Proceedings
Justice Mathias Dawodu had earlier struck out a pre-emptive suit filed by the claimants on April 15, citing the existence of the substantive matter before Justice Azeez. VDM’s motion to stay proceedings was also struck out.
Next Steps
The case was adjourned to July 8, 2025, for mention, with the court instructing VDM to file his defence promptly.
