Blogger VeryDarkMan has been ordered to appear in court over alleged defamation against gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The case, which also includes a N1.1 billion civil lawsuit, continues to spark debate online.
The Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6 has issued a subpoena against social media influencer and blogger Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over allegations of criminal defamation against popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The court summon, dated March 5, 2025, was signed by Chief Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna, requiring VDM to appear before the court in person on March 13, 2025, to respond to the charges.
The case originates from statements allegedly made by VDM on social media, where he accused Mercy Chinwo of being involved in a contractual dispute and the misappropriation of $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee. These claims, according to Chinwo, have severely damaged her reputation and public image. To support her case, she has presented documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, which she claims prove that the allegations against her are false and harmful.
According to legal documents, the alleged defamatory statements made by VDM are in violation of Section 391 of the Penal Code and Section 24 (1)(B) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention, etc. Act 2015. The law considers defamation a serious offense, particularly when it involves the use of digital platforms to spread damaging falsehoods.
In addition to the criminal case at the magistrate court, Mercy Chinwo has also filed a civil lawsuit against VeryDarkMan at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. In this suit, she is demanding N1.1 billion in damages for the harm caused to her reputation. Her legal team is also seeking an order that will compel VDM to delete all allegedly defamatory content, issue a retraction, and publicly apologize to Chinwo and her brand.
The allegations against VeryDarkMan (VDM) have sparked widespread discussion online, with social media users divided over the matter. Some have expressed support for the blogger, claiming he is being targeted for speaking his mind, while others have defended Chinwo, emphasizing the importance of protecting individuals from baseless accusations. This case highlights the increasing legal implications of social media activities in Nigeria, where defamation laws are being actively enforced in the digital space.
