The Chief Magistrate Court, Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of blogger Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over allegations of criminal defamation against gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. This development has sparked debates over whether this is a genuine pursuit of justice or a targeted suppression of free speech.
Mercy Chinwo vs. VeryDarkMan—Defamation or Media Trial?
On March 13, 2025, Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna ordered the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to arrest VeryDarkMan and bring him before the court. The warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court on March 5, 2025, despite a prior summons.
VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, attempted to intervene, requesting the magistrate to reconsider the bench warrant. He assured the court that he would personally present his client. However, Magistrate Iyanna rejected the appeal, maintaining that security agencies must ensure VeryDarkMan’s arrest and court appearance.
Speaking to Channels Television, Adeyanju confirmed the legal move, stating, “Yes, a bench warrant has been issued against him for failure to show up in court. They are just interested in media trial over the matter. They are not interested in prosecuting the matter.”
This statement raises a critical question: Is this about enforcing the law, or is it a public spectacle meant to silence the controversial blogger?
Court Orders VeryDarkMan’s Arrest Over Chinwo’s N1.1 Billion Lawsuit
The bench warrant is linked to allegations that VeryDarkMan falsely accused Mercy Chinwo of financial misconduct. He claimed she was involved in a contractual dispute and the diversion of $345,000, allegedly linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu (Eezee Tee).
To counter these claims, Chinwo presented documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, proving that VDM’s allegations were not only false but damaging to her reputation.
Her legal team, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi of Law Corridor, argued that VDM’s statements violated Sections 391 of the Penal Code and Section 24 (1)(B) of the Cybercrime Act 2015. These provisions criminalize false and defamatory statements made online.
Additionally, Chinwo’s lawyers have taken the matter to the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, where they are seeking N1.1 billion in damages. The lawsuit demands that VeryDarkMan deletes, retracts, and publicly apologizes for all defamatory statements made against Chinwo and her brand.
Is the Arrest of VeryDarkMan a Threat to Free Speech?
While VeryDarkMan’s arrest warrant may seem like a straightforward legal matter, it raises concerns about the balance between free speech and defamation laws in Nigeria.
VDM has built a reputation for calling out public figures, often in bold and controversial ways. However, his critics argue that his approach often crosses the line into defamation, making legal action inevitable.
But the bigger question remains, Is this an example of the law taking its course, or is it a calculated attempt to silence a loud voice?
