Court Orders Arrest of Social Media Critic Over Alleged Defamation of Gospel Singer Mercy Chinwo

A Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, issued a bench warrant for the arrest of social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

The warrant was as a result of allegations of criminal defamation against renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.

The warrant was issued on March 13, 2025, by Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna following VDM’s failure to appear in court despite being summoned on March 5, 2025.

The legal proceedings stem from accusations made by VDM on social media, alleging that Mercy Chinwo was involved in a contractual dispute. VDM also claimed that she had diverted $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee.

Mercy Chinwo’s legal team has refuted these claims, presenting evidence such as emails and payment receipts to demonstrate that VDM’s allegations are unfounded and damaging to her reputation.

In response to the defamatory statements, Chinwo’s counsel, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi of the Abuja-based Law Corridor, filed a lawsuit seeking N1.1 billion in damages against VDM.

The legal team also asserts that VDM’s actions violate Section 24 (1)(B) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 and Section 391 of the Penal Code.

Furthermore, the lawsuit demands that VDM retract his statements, delete the alleged defamatory posts, and issue a public apology.

During the court proceedings, VDM’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, appealed for reconsideration of the bench warrant, assuring the court that he would personally ensure his client’s appearance.

However, Magistrate Iyanna denied the appeal, insisting that law enforcement agencies arrest VDM and produce him in court to address the criminal charges.

This development is a continuation of the escalating legal battle between Mercy Chinwo and VDM, over the potential legal consequences of making unverified and damaging statements on social media platforms.

Fingers crossed on where this ends. Skiworld is always prepared to keep you updated as it happens…