Nigerian social media critic, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has publicly refuted allegations of defamation made against the prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN. In a video posted on his Instagram account, VeryDarkMan expressed his profound respect for Falana, whom he referred to as his “Uncle,” reinforcing the personal nature of their relationship.
The controversy arose following allegations directed at VeryDarkMan by Nigerian rapper Falz, who threatened legal action after being implicated alongside his father, Femi Falana, in a voice recording related to a bribery scandal involving the crossdresser Bobrisky and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This development has sparked significant media attention and public discourse surrounding the integrity of the parties involved.
Clarification from VeryDarkMan’s Legal Team
In response to the defamation claims, VeryDarkMan’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, issued a statement clarifying that his client merely sought to question the legitimacy of Bobrisky’s statements in the leaked audio, rather than to defame Femi Falana. The statement read:
“We’re solicitors to Mr. Martins Vincent Otse, now referred to as our client, on whose instruction we act. Our client received your letter dated September 25, 2024, on the above subject matter wherein you demanded the retraction of his Instagram publication containing a voice recording between Mr. Okuneye Idris Olarenwaju (Bobrisky) and a third party.”
Adeyanju further emphasized that VeryDarkMan does not intend to malign Falana’s reputation but instead aims to prompt an investigation into the serious allegations made by Bobrisky. He highlighted the importance of examining the claims within the leaked audio, particularly since elements of the recording had been acknowledged by Folarin Falana in a previous correspondence.
Focus on Investigative Actions
The lawyer urged that the focus should remain on the allegations made against certain EFCC officers, rather than on pursuing defamation charges against VeryDarkMan. He noted:
“Our client holds Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, in high esteem and recognizes his commitment to protecting human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria. In light of the preceding, our client believes that the appropriate line of action in the circumstances is an interagency investigation into the allegations contained in the voice recording rather than pursuing a case of defamation.”
This sentiment was echoed in a Facebook post by Adeyanju, where he directed Falz to concentrate his efforts on addressing the statements made by Bobrisky, suggesting that Falz should engage directly with him regarding the controversy.
As the situation unfolds, the implications of this controversy extend beyond individual reputations, touching on broader issues of accountability and integrity within Nigeria’s political and social landscape. VeryDarkMan’s assertion of respect for Femi Falana coupled with the push for an investigation into the allegations against EFCC officers indicates a complex interplay of legal and ethical considerations. As public interest continues to grow, all parties involved will be closely monitored as they navigate this intricate web of accusations and legal implications. Further developments in this case are anticipated, as the Nigerian public seeks clarity on the unfolding events.
