Esinjemiyotan Atsepoyi, the wife of well-known Nigerian comedian Mr. Jollof (Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi), has filed a defamation lawsuit against activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan.
The lawsuit seeks N500 million in damages, marking a strong response to recent allegations made by Otse. Esinjemiyotan’s legal action reflects the serious nature of the claims against her, which, if unaddressed, could have substantial personal and professional repercussions.
The case highlights the escalating tensions between public figures and online commentators, with accusations like these impacting reputations and livelihoods.
VeryDarkMan, an Abuja-based activist, publicly accused Esinjemiyotan of using questionable methods to help her husband secure a governmental position as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on New Media for Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
In addition to these claims, VeryDarkMan also alleged that she was involved in adulterous relationships with a “Yahoo boy” and multiple politicians. Such accusations, especially directed at public figures, have the potential to severely tarnish reputations, making Esinjemiyotan’s legal response a crucial step in defending her integrity.
Reacting to these allegations, Esinjemiyotan issued a 30-day ultimatum for VeryDarkMan to appear in court and substantiate his claims. This ultimatum, coupled with the filing of a formal lawsuit, underscores her commitment to confronting these accusations head-on.
The four-page writ of summons, which Esinjemiyotan publicly shared on social media, details the allegations and provides an outline of her legal arguments. By taking legal action and making the writ public, she aims to demonstrate her seriousness and challenge VeryDarkMan’s statements.
Esinjemiyotan’s lawsuit also includes a demand for N500 million in compensation, which she claims is necessary to address the damage caused to her reputation and business. In defamation cases, such financial demands are often a means to counteract the harm caused by alleged false claims, particularly when they affect an individual’s professional standing.
By seeking substantial damages, Esinjemiyotan aims to emphasize the impact of VeryDarkMan’s statements on her personal and business life, asserting the seriousness of the harm caused by his allegations.
Additionally, Esinjemiyotan has requested a public apology from VeryDarkMan to be published in at least two national newspapers and on all his social media platforms. This demand for a public apology indicates her desire not only for legal compensation but also for a public retraction of the statements that she contends are defamatory.
Such an apology would serve as a corrective measure to restore her public image, especially as the allegations have already circulated widely online, impacting how she is perceived by the public.
The writ of summons includes specific legal requests, such as a declaration that VeryDarkMan defamed Esinjemiyotan in his publications on September 15th, 16th, and 19th, 2024. It also seeks a perpetual injunction to prevent him from making further defamatory statements against her.
This type of injunction would provide ongoing protection against future defamatory actions, underscoring the legal system’s role in balancing freedom of speech with the right to protect one’s reputation. The lawsuit and its details highlight the gravity of defamation cases in the digital age, where information spreads rapidly, often with lasting effects on individuals’ personal and professional lives.
