Blogger VeryDarkMan Faces Arrest Warrant For Defaming Gospel Artist, Mercy Chinwo

Blogger VeryDarkMan Faces Arrest Warrant For Defaming Gospel Artist, Mercy Chinwo

A bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of popular blogger Martins Vincent Otse, also known online as VeryDarkMan (VDM), for allegedly defaming gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo.

The warrant was issued on Thursday, March 13, 2025, by Chief Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna of the Chief Magistrate Court, Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, after VDM failed to appear in court on March 5, 2025, as summonsed.

The charges stem from VDM’s social media allegations that Chinwo was involved in a contractual dispute and allegedly misappropriated $345,000 from her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu (Eezee Tee).

Chinwo’s legal team, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi of Law Corridor, presented the court with what they described as compelling documentary evidence refuting VDM’s claims, including emails and payment receipts.

The magistrate rejected VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju,’s request to reconsider the warrant, insisting that the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies apprehend VDM and bring him before the court to answer criminal defamation charges under Sections 391 of the Penal Code and Section 24 (1)(B) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015.

Chinwo’s lawyers claim that VDM’s statements were not only false, but also seriously harmed her reputation and public image.

Separately, Chinwo has sued VDM for N1.1 billion (approximately $2.3 million USD) in the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, seeking an order compelling him to retract his statements, issue a public apology, and delete the defamatory content.

The issuance of the bench warrant highlights Nigeria’s growing concern about online defamation and the potential legal consequences for individuals who make false and damaging statements on social media.

The arrest of VDM is still pending.