Court Throws Out VeryDarkMan’s Objection in N1 Billion Defamation Case by Femi Falana and Falz

In a significant development in the ongoing legal battle between controversial social commentator Martins Vincent Otse—widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM)—and the prominent father-son duo of Femi Falana SAN and Nigerian music star Falz (Folarin Falana), the Lagos High Court has ruled against the preliminary objection filed by VDM.

The case, which revolves around claims of defamation of character, saw Justice F. Afeez Azeez firmly reject VDM’s attempt to halt or delay the proceedings. The court emphasized that the objection lacked substance and awarded a total cost of N200,000 against the defendant.

According to Vanguard, Justice Azeez issued his ruling on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, and stated clearly that VDM must now file his full defence in response to the allegations made by the Falanas.

What Led to the Defamation Lawsuit?

The legal face-off was triggered by a video that VeryDarkMan posted on Instagram (@verydarkblackman) on September 24, 2024. In the controversial clip, the outspoken critic made several accusations and statements that both Femi Falana and Falz considered to be highly defamatory and damaging to their hard-earned reputations.

In their separate but related lawsuits, the Falana family alleged that the video was:

“libellous, scandalous and defamatory.”

They further asserted that the statements made by VDM in the video were not only false but intended to tarnish their personal and professional image in the public eye.

As a result, both Femi and Folarin Falana are demanding N500 million each in damages, making the total claim a staggering N1 billion.

The Legal Representation and Court Appearance

At the court hearing in Lagos, Femi Falana SAN, a renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was represented by his legal team comprising Ernest Olawanle and Femi Akinyemi. His son, Folarin Falana (Falz)—a popular rapper, actor, and vocal social justice advocate—was present in court for the proceedings.

However, VDM was notably absent from the courtroom, choosing instead to be represented by his legal counsel, Marvin Omorogbe.

This absence did not prevent the judge from proceeding with the matter, especially considering the urgency and seriousness of the allegations.

Judge’s Ruling: No Merit in VDM’s Objection

In his ruling, Justice Azeez made it clear that the preliminary objection filed by VDM had no legal merit. As a result, the judge dismissed the objection in its entirety.

Not only did the court reject the objection, but it also imposed a financial penalty on VDM. The judge ordered that the defendant pay a total of N200,000 in costs, broken down as:

• N100,000 to Femi Falana

• N100,000 to Falz

This cost is meant to compensate the claimants for the time and legal resources expended in responding to what the court viewed as a baseless and delaying legal maneuver.

Justice Azeez also instructed VDM and his legal team to immediately file their defence, marking a critical step forward in what promises to be a high-profile and closely watched defamation case.

The Claims: What the Falanas Are Demanding

The Falana family’s lawsuit is more than just about financial compensation. Beyond the N1 billion in damages, the plaintiffs are asking the court for a number of significant legal remedies, including:

1. A declaration that VDM’s video publication was defamatory to their character and reputation.

2. A perpetual injunction restraining VDM, his agents, or any associates from making or sharing any similar defamatory content against them in the future.

Essentially, the Falanas are seeking to not only restore their reputations but also set a legal precedent that discourages the reckless use of social media to spread unverified, damaging claims against individuals—especially public figures.

What Is Defamation and Why Is This Case Important?

Defamation, under Nigerian law, refers to any false statement made publicly that harms the reputation of an individual. It can be spoken (slander) or written/published (libel).

This case is particularly significant because it highlights the growing concern about how online platforms, especially social media, are being used to attack reputations without accountability. In Nigeria, where influential personalities often use their platforms for advocacy, activism, or critique, the line between freedom of speech and defamation is increasingly becoming a topic of legal debate.

By taking this issue to court, the Falana family is making it clear that there are legal limits to what can be said online, even under the guise of criticism or activism.

Who Is VeryDarkMan (VDM)?

Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, is a social media personality and self-styled social critic who has built a massive following for his outspoken and often controversial takes on Nigerian politics, celebrities, and societal issues.

He is known for posting highly opinionated videos—mostly from his Instagram handle @verydarkblackman—where he does not hesitate to name names or speak in aggressive tones.

While some see him as a necessary voice calling out corruption and injustice, others believe that his approach often crosses the line into defamation and misinformation.

This lawsuit could be a defining moment for his career and could determine how far influencers and critics can go before being held legally responsible for their statements.

Falz: Activist and Musician

Folarin Falana, better known as Falz, is not just the son of a legal giant—he has carved a niche for himself as an entertainer, activist, and social commentator. With songs like "This Is Nigeria" and his active participation in the #EndSARS movement, Falz has long been seen as a voice for Nigerian youth.

His decision to go to court shows that he takes his public image and credibility seriously, and it’s a bold statement that activists and public figures deserve protection from slander just like any other citizen.

Conclusion: What Happens Next?

With the preliminary objection now dismissed, the stage is set for a full trial, where the court will hear evidence from both sides and determine whether VDM’s statements were indeed defamatory.

The next steps include:

• VDM filing his defence

• Presentation of evidence by both parties

• Cross-examinations and legal arguments

• Final ruling by the court on the merit of the defamation claims

Whatever the outcome, this case could set a legal and social precedent for how Nigeria handles defamation in the digital age. It underscores the need for responsible use of social media, especially by influencers and public commentators who command large audiences.

As the trial unfolds, all eyes will be on the Lagos High Court to see how justice is served.

Stay tuned to NaijaRush.com for detailed updates on this unfolding legal drama. We’ll continue to bring you verified, easy-to-understand news on the biggest political, legal, and entertainment stories shaping Nigeria today.