Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), is a prominent Nigerian social media activist known for his bold commentaries on societal issues, corruption, and public figures. His controversial posts have garnered him a loyal following but also led to several brushes with the law. From cyberstalking allegations to defamation claims, VDM’s activism has repeatedly clashed with Nigeria’s legal system.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the key moments when VeryDarkMan was arrested, and the reasons behind each incident.
- March 2024 – Cyberbullying and Cyberstalking Charges
In March 2024, VDM was arrested and charged with multiple offenses under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015. The charges stemmed from several videos in which he accused celebrities of various misconducts:
He claimed actress Iyabo Ojo was romantically involved with her daughter’s partner.
He accused actress Tonto Dikeh of diverting funds from a donation campaign.
He alleged that popular crossdresser Bobrisky was involved in illicit dealings with politicians and law enforcement officers.
The police deemed these statements to be cyberbullying and cyberstalking. VDM spent about nine days in detention before being released on bail.
On June 30, 2024 Arrest Over Alleged Defamation
VDM was arrested again in June after accusing an unnamed individual of fraud in one of his exposés. According to his lawyer, the arrest was conducted at his Abuja residence and was linked to a complaint by the alleged scammer. He was released shortly after.
October 30, 2024 – Detention for Wearing a Police Uniform
In October 2024, VDM was detained after he posted a video in which he wore a police uniform and jokingly called himself a “CSP of an online division.” The Nigeria Police Force considered this impersonation of a law enforcement officer and a violation of the law. VDM later apologized and urged other creators to avoid such acts.
March 13, 2025 – Arrest Warrant for Defamation of Mercy Chinwo
A bench warrant was issued for VDM’s arrest by a Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja following a criminal defamation suit filed by gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. VDM allegedly made unsubstantiated claims that Chinwo had financial ties to her former record label, leading to a legal response supported by documentary evidence. The warrant was issued after the court rejected his lawyer’s request to produce him voluntarily.
May 2, 2025 – Arrest by EFCC Over Cyberstalking Allegations
Again, Most recently, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested VDM in Abuja following multiple petitions from individuals accusing him of cyberstalking. He was apprehended at a GTBank branch, where he had gone with his mother to address an unrelated banking issue. According to his legal team, the EFCC presented an arrest warrant signed by Chief Magistrate Njideka Iloanya Duru. As of the latest updates, he remains in custody pending bail and possible court proceedings.
Public Response and Legal Debate
VDM’s repeated arrests have drawn mixed reactions across Nigeria. Supporters see him as a truth-teller challenging the status quo, while critics argues that his style of confrontation often crosses legal boundaries. Public figures such as musician Davido and former presidential candidate Peter Obi have voiced support, with calls for transparency and fair legal treatment.
The legal challenges surrounding VeryDarkMan highlight the complex intersection of free speech, online activism, and defamation of laws in Nigeria. As his cases progress, they continue to ignite conversations about the limits of digital expression and accountability in public discourse.
Stay tuned for updates on VDM’s legal battles and the evolving landscape of social media activism in Nigeria.
