Popular social media figure Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was re-arraigned on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of cyberbullying several Nigerian celebrities, including Nollywood actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh.
VDM, who pleaded not guilty to a five-count charge, appeared before Justice Musa Liman. His initial arraignment took place in May 2024 before Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon, but the case was reassigned following a change in the presiding judge. The refiled case bears the number FHC/ABJ/CR/140/2024.
According to the police, the charges stem from a series of videos posted by Otse between October 2023 and March 2024.
The content allegedly included threats against music producer Samklef, defamatory claims about Iyabo Ojo and her daughter, accusations against Tonto Dikeh related to the “Justice for Mobbad” campaign, and derogatory remarks directed at senior police officers and lawmakers.
VDM was previously granted bail set at ₦10 million, with two sureties. His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, requested that the court maintain those conditions, a motion not opposed by the prosecution. Justice Liman agreed, allowing the influencer to remain on bail.
The court has adjourned the matter until July 24, 2025, for trial.
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