The Nigerian police have re-arraigned social media critic Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), on fresh charges of cyberbullying, this time involving Nollywood actresses Tonto Dikeh and Iyabo Ojo.
The police have accused VDM of using his social media platforms to harass and defame the actresses, along with other notable figures, including renowned producer and singer Samuel Oguachuba, also known as Samklef.
The charges are part of a broader crackdown on cyber harassment, with the police aiming to set a precedent in cases of online abuse.
VDM appeared before Justice Musa Liman of the Federal High Court in the Federal Capital Territory on Thursday, facing a five-count charge that revolves around alleged violations of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
When the charges were read, he pleaded not guilty, maintaining his innocence against the allegations of cyberbullying.
His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, immediately addressed the court, requesting that his client be allowed to continue on the bail terms previously granted by Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon of a sister court.
“Your Lordship, the defendant has been diligent in attending court proceedings since the initial charges were filed,” Adeyanju argued.
“We humbly request that the existing bail conditions be maintained to ensure that justice is served without unnecessary hardship to the defendant.”
The counsel to the Inspector-General of Police, Victor Okoye, did not object to this request, and Justice Liman upheld the earlier bail terms, allowing VDM to remain free on bail while the case proceeds. The judge then adjourned the matter until July 24 for trial.
The case against VDM is not new. He was first arraigned before Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon on May 22, 2024, on similar charges of cyberbullying under Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act.
During that appearance, the court granted him bail in the sum of N10 million with two sureties who must either be employees of reputable companies or Level 17 officers in the federal civil service, complete with evidence of three years’ tax clearance.
This strict bail condition underscored the seriousness with which the judiciary viewed the allegations.
While the police maintain that VDM’s social media activities have crossed the line into criminal conduct, his supporters argue that he is simply exercising his right to free speech.
The re-arraignment has reignited debates about the limits of online expression in Nigeria, with some viewing the case as a necessary stand against cyber harassment, while others fear it could set a dangerous precedent for stifling dissenting voices.
As the trial date approaches, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court to see how this high-profile case unfolds.
