VeryDarkMan Remanded in Custody Over Cyberstalking Allegations

Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, a prominent social media influencer and Vlogger, has been arraigned on five counts of cyberstalking at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The charges stem from allegedly defamatory content posted on his Instagram account, targeting high-profile individuals and institutions. 

VeryDarkMan has been remanded in police custody until May 29, 2024, when the court will reconvene to further deliberate on his case.

Details of the Charges

The specific accusations against VeryDarkMan include:

• Disseminating videos on Instagram that purportedly contained false information about actress Iyabo Ojo and her daughter.
• Posting defamatory content about actress Tonto Dikeh, alleging her involvement in the criminal misappropriation of funds raised through the “Justice for Mohbad Movement.”
• Accusing Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) of the Nigeria Police Force and members of the National Assembly of misconduct through his online videos.
• Sharing false information about popular cross-dresser Bobrisky and various Senators and senior police officers, further escalating the controversy.

VeryDarkMan’s arrest has ignited a heated debate on the boundaries of freedom of speech in Nigeria. 

The Nigerian constitution upholds the right to freedom of expression; however, it also imposes restrictions to curb hate speech and incitement to violence. 

This case has brought these legal tensions into sharp focus, as it underscores the challenges of balancing free speech with protecting individuals and institutions from defamation and misinformation.

Supporters of VeryDarkMan argue that his arrest is an attempt to stifle dissent and silence a vocal critic of the establishment. They contend that the charges are a misuse of the legal system to intimidate and suppress critical voices in the media. 

On the other hand, proponents of his arrest emphasize the importance of accountability and the need to combat the spread of false information that can harm reputations and incite public unrest.