Lagos High Court has struck out the preliminary objection filed by popular social commentator, Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
This in a ₦1 billion defamation suit brought against him by renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), and his son, award-winning rapper and activist, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz.
Delivering the ruling on Tuesday, May 20, Justice F. Azeez held that VDM’s objection lacked merit and failed to provide sufficient grounds to dismiss the case.
Consequently, the court imposed a cost of ₦200,000 on VDM, ₦100,000 each awarded to Femi and Folarin Falana.
The judge further ordered the defendant to promptly file his statement of defence, marking a crucial step in the defamation trial.
Background Of The Case
The lawsuit stems from a video published by VeryDarkMan on his Instagram account (@verydarkblackman) on September 24, 2024.
In the video, VDM allegedly made several damaging and defamatory remarks about the Falanas.
The claimants argue that the allegations have injured their reputations both personally and professionally.
Femi and Folarin Falana are each demanding ₦500 million in damages, totalling ₦1 billion.
They are also seeking a declaration from the court that the statements made by VDM were libellous, defamatory, and malicious in nature.
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In addition to monetary compensation, the plaintiffs are requesting a perpetual injunction restraining the defendant.
This includes his agents, social media handlers, or collaborators from publishing or disseminating further defamatory content against them.
Legal Representation
At the court hearing, Femi Falana was represented by legal counsels Ernest Olawanle and Femi Akinyemi.
His son, Falz, appeared in person.
Although VDM was not present in court, he was represented by his lawyer, Marvin Omorogbe.
The ruling clears the path for the case to proceed to full trial.
The evidence presented will determine whether the statements made in the video indeed constitute defamation under Nigerian law.
The next court date is expected to be set soon.
