Social media influencer Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been re-arraigned before Justice Musa Liman of the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of cyberbullying.
The allegations involve actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh, as well as music producer Samuel ‘Samklef’ Oguachuba.
VDM was re-arraigned on a five-count charge bordering on cyberstalking and the alleged dissemination of offensive content through his social media platforms. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
VDM’s counsel, Deji Adeyanju, prayed the court to allow the defendant to continue on the earlier bail granted by Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon of a sister court.
The prosecution counsel, Victor Okoye, did not oppose the application. Justice Liman subsequently admitted the defendant to the previous bail terms.
The trial is expected to begin on July 24, 2025. According to the charge sheet, the allegations against VDM include, posting a video containing threatening and bullying statements directed at Samklef, posting videos containing offensive content targeting Iyabo Ojo, including a claim that she had an indecent sexual relationship with her daughter, falsely publishing that Tonto Dikeh had diverted proceeds from a crowdfunding campaign and was behind the anonymous blog ‘Gistlover, posting content considered annoying and insulting towards Deputy Inspectors-General of Police and members of the National Assembly
VDM was initially arraigned on May 22, 2024, and granted bail on June 10, 2024, to the sum of N10 million, with two sureties either employees of reputable organisations or federal civil servants of not less than Level 17, with evidence of three years’ tax clearance.
