Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan)

Martins Vincent Otse, known widely as VeryDarkMan, has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most polarizing figures in activism and social media influence. Born on April 8, 1994, in Kaduna, Nigeria, Otse has built a reputation as a fearless critic and whistleblower, using his platforms to challenge societal issues and celebrities alike. While celebrated for his outspoken activism, his journey has been riddled with controversies, from public spats with Nigerian stars to multiple allegations of defamation and cyberbullying. This is the comprehensive story of Martins Vincent Otse: his rise, his conflicts, and his impact on Nigeria’s digital and entertainment landscape.

Early Life and Education

Martins Vincent Otse was born into a modest family in Kaduna State, Nigeria. He hails from Edo State but spent his formative years in the culturally diverse environment of Kaduna. His parents, Mr. Emmanuel Otse and Mrs. Blessing Otse, emphasized education and discipline, laying the foundation for his outspoken nature. Martins attended Command Secondary School, Kaduna, where his teachers and peers noted his strong opinions and knack for debating societal norms.

While little is publicly known about his higher education, Otse has often mentioned his passion for learning through personal research and engagement with issues of social justice. This self-education became the backbone of his activism.

Martins attended the University of Lagos, where he pursued a degree in Business Administration. A glance at his Instagram page and TikTok videos reveals his strong command of the English language. His eloquence and unwavering stance on trending topics have earned him applause from Nigerians and even celebrities, such as Davido and Korra Obidi.

Career Beginnings

Martins began his career as a content creator on YouTube and Instagram, focusing on comedic skits and cultural commentary. His breakout moment came in 2022 with a viral Instagram video critiquing Nigerian celebrities for their extravagant lifestyles amid widespread poverty. This bold stance quickly made him a household name, albeit a divisive one.

By June 2023, Otse’s notoriety reached new heights when Nigerian music superstar Davido followed him on Instagram and publicly endorsed his activism, calling him “a needed voice for this generation.” The endorsement brought both praise and backlash, with some accusing Otse of courting celebrity drama for fame. That same year, Otse was nominated for Silverbird’s Most Influential Social Media Influencer of the Year award, solidifying his place as a force in Nigeria’s digital space.

Activism and Philanthropy

Otse’s activism extended beyond social media when he established an NGO in 2023 focused on consumer safety and accountability. His work included exposing unregulated skincare brands and advocating for better standards in the beauty industry. The NGO raised over 200 million Naira, with significant contributions from figures like Don Jazzy, whom Otse had previously criticized for supporting Bobrisky.

Controversies and Public Quarrels

Martins Otse’s rise was fueled by public confrontations with Nigerian celebrities, many of which devolved into heated exchanges:

Quarrel with Bobrisky (April 2023)

In April 2023, Martins Vincent Otse, known online as VeryDarkMan (VDM), launched a public confrontation with Nigerian socialite Bobrisky, accusing the influencer of “promoting a culture of deceit and materialism.” The exchange quickly escalated across social media platforms.

Initial Accusation

VDM took to Instagram and Twitter to criticize Bobrisky’s extravagant lifestyle, suggesting her brand encouraged superficial values and emotional manipulation among youth. He questioned the legitimacy of her wealth and influence.

Bobrisky’s Rebuttal

Bobrisky responded in a live video, dismissing VDM as “just one hungry guy looking for clout with my name.” She framed his criticisms as opportunistic attention-seeking rather than genuine concern.

Allegations Backed by Voice Notes

VDM intensified the feud by releasing leaked voice notes attributed to Bobrisky, claiming insider insight into her personal dealings. One message purportedly confirmed Bobrisky was never imprisoned, despite circulating rumors, stating:

“I can 100% confirm that Bobrisky never went to prison…” (instagram.com, legit.ng)

These audio snippets also included discussions about money lending and interactions with the EFCC, suggesting transfers or negotiations tied to her legal matters. (facebook.com)

Senate & EFCC Engagement

To substantiate his claims, VDM appeared before a House of Representatives investigative committee, accompanied by his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, to press the EFCC for clarity on Bobrisky’s alleged money transfers. (lindaikejisblog.com) Moreover, he made a high-profile visit to the Senate, warning lawmakers about what he describes as the medicated “bribery narrative.”

Public and Official Reactions

The voice notes sparked public debate and prompted the EFCC to invite both VDM and Bobrisky for records verification. (m.youtube.com) Other revelations included claims that Bobrisky borrowed ₦4 million, and that initial charges were dropped after a ₦15 million payment—allegedly to the EFCC. (allafrica.com)

Quarrel with Don Jazzy (July 2024)

In the aftermath of his feud with Bobrisky, VeryDarkMan (VDM) publicly called out music executive Don Jazzy, criticizing him for allegedly associating with and showing support for Bobrisky during his legal troubles, including the period when Bobrisky was believed to be in prison. VDM expressed deep disappointment, stating that he had lost respect for Don Jazzy, whom he once admired as a cultural icon.

He also extended his criticism to other celebrities, including Tiwa Savage, accusing them of indirectly endorsing or enabling homosexual behavior by celebrating and publicly supporting Bobrisky. According to VDM, such acts contribute to normalizing what he views as morally objectionable conduct in Nigerian society.

“These are the same people who our youth look up to, and now they’re glorifying what should be condemned? I’ve lost all respect,” VDM said in one of his Instagram videos.

His remarks triggered widespread debate on freedom of association, celebrity influence, and LGBTQ+ rights in Nigeria. While some applauded his stance as reflective of conservative Nigerian values, others condemned his statements as homophobic and regressive, arguing that public figures should promote inclusivity and tolerance, not fuel discrimination.

Defamation Lawsuit by Mercy Chinwo

In April 2024, Nigerian gospel music star Mercy Chinwo filed a ₦1.1 billion defamation lawsuit against social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, stems from VDM’s online commentary and video content regarding Chinwo’s ongoing dispute with her former manager and record label executive, Ezekiel Thankgod Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee.

Background to the Dispute

Mercy Chinwo had been in a legal and contractual disagreement with Eezee Tee, founder of the gospel music label EeZee Conceptz, which previously managed her career. While the details of their fallout remain partially confidential, reports suggest the conflict involved disputes over royalties, ownership of master recordings, and alleged financial mismanagement.

As the controversy gained traction online, VDM weighed in publicly—publishing videos and commentary that criticized Chinwo’s handling of the situation and questioned her claims against her former manager. In one video, VDM insinuated that Chinwo was manipulating public sentiment for sympathy, and accused her of hypocrisy in her public and private conduct—a claim that Chinwo’s legal team described as malicious, false, and damaging to her reputation.

Nature of the Lawsuit

In her suit, Chinwo alleged that VDM’s videos and social media statements amounted to defamation of character, resulting in reputational harm, emotional distress, and economic losses. She is demanding:

• ₦1 billion in general damages for defamation
• ₦100 million in legal and associated costs
• A public apology and retraction published on all of VDM’s social media platforms and at least two national newspapers
• A perpetual injunction restraining him from making further defamatory statements against her

Chinwo’s legal representatives emphasized that their client, being a devout Christian and public figure in the gospel community, suffered undue reputational damage, especially among her religious followers and fans.

VDM’s Response

VeryDarkMan dismissed the lawsuit as an attempt to silence him, labeling it a “frivolous attack on free speech.” In response, his legal counsel—Deji Adeyanju—issued a public statement calling the lawsuit “a joke” and affirming VDM’s right to critique public figures. Adeyanju added that Chinwo, by virtue of her status as a public celebrity involved in a public dispute, should expect public scrutiny, and that his client’s comments were based on facts available in the public domain.

“They want to use a ₦1.1 billion suit to intimidate a young man for speaking out. This is not just laughable—it’s unconstitutional.” — Deji Adeyanju

Public Reaction

The lawsuit has generated mixed reactions online. While Chinwo’s supporters applaud her for defending her name and maintaining moral standards, others argue that the case reflects a growing trend of celebrities using legal threats to muzzle digital commentators and activists. Free speech advocates have since rallied around VDM, viewing the case as a potential test of Nigeria’s defamation laws in the age of social media activism.

As of now, the matter is still pending in court, and both sides are preparing for what could be a high-profile legal showdown with potential implications for online commentary, freedom of expression, and digital accountability in Nigeria.

Defamation Suit by ABC Transport CEO’s Daughter

In May 2024, Ihuoma Nneji, daughter of Frank Nneji, the founder and CEO of ABC Transport Plc, filed a defamation lawsuit against Nigerian social commentator and activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). The suit also listed controversial investigative journalist Dr. Kemi Olunloyo as a co-defendant, alleging that both individuals were involved in a coordinated campaign of online character assassination targeting her personal and professional life.

Allegations Against VDM

The legal action followed a series of viral videos and social media posts in which VDM allegedly made defamatory remarks about Ihuoma Nneji. According to court documents and media reports, VDM is accused of:

• Making false claims about Nneji’s professional qualifications and source of income
• Alleging that she misrepresented her marital status and family background
• Imputing that her business success was connected to unethical personal relationships
• Accusing her of involvement in fraudulent activities, without providing substantiated evidence

These claims were widely circulated on platforms such as Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, drawing public scrutiny and resulting in what Nneji described as significant reputational damage, emotional distress, and professional setbacks.

Legal Claims and Demands

Filed at a High Court in Lagos, the lawsuit demands:

• A formal public retraction of the defamatory content by both VDM and Kemi Olunloyo
• ₦500 million in general and aggravated damages
• A perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from publishing or disseminating further defamatory content
• Publication of a written apology in at least two national dailies and across the defendants’ digital platforms

Nneji’s legal counsel argued that the statements were deliberately malicious, intended to undermine her integrity as a public personality and the daughter of a respected business leader.

Role of Kemi Olunloyo

Kemi Olunloyo, who has a long history of involvement in high-profile online feuds and controversial reportage, was accused of amplifying VDM’s claims, either by sharing, commenting on, or expanding the narrative. Her inclusion as a co-defendant further elevated the visibility of the case, given her track record of legal battles with public figures in Nigeria.

VDM’s Response

VeryDarkMan responded to the lawsuit in his characteristic style, taking to social media to defend his actions as investigative commentary. He asserted that his videos were based on public interest and did not constitute defamation, as they were grounded in information allegedly gathered from “verified sources.” He refused to apologize, stating that “truth is not defamation.”

His legal team, led by Deji Adeyanju, also issued a statement emphasizing VDM’s right to freedom of expression, arguing that the courts should not be used to silence critical voices in a democracy.

Public Reaction

The defamation suit sparked mixed reactions online and in the media. While some commentators argued that VDM had crossed ethical boundaries by targeting a private citizen, others defended his right to question public figures and elite privilege. Supporters of Ihuoma Nneji viewed the lawsuit as a legitimate attempt to protect her dignity and set a legal precedent against cyberbullying and character assassination.

The case is currently under legal review, with hearings expected to commence later in 2025. It is seen as part of a broader trend in Nigeria where social media influence intersects with defamation law, challenging how far commentary can go in the name of activism and accountability.

Feud with Nedu Wazobia and the Nedu Foundation Controversy

Verydarkman (VDM) has been engaged in a public dispute with Nedu Ani, popularly known as Nedu Wazobia, a well-known Nigerian on-air personality and media host. The conflict escalated due to allegations and counter-allegations involving the Nedu Foundation and its financial dealings.

The Nedu Foundation Scandal and Online Clashes

VDM’s dispute with Nedu Wazobia gained attention when Dee-One, a comedian and former Big Brother Naija contestant, appeared on The Honest Bunch Podcast, which is hosted by Nedu Wazobia. During the podcast, Dee-One made serious allegations against Martin Otse (Verydarkman), including:

• Claims that Otse (Verydarkman) is gay.
• Accusations that Otse embezzled ₦20 million from an NGO fund.

In retaliation, VDM launched an aggressive online campaign against Nedu Wazobia, accusing him of fraudulently obtaining ₦60 million from a UK-based charity. However, investigations later debunked this claim, as the alleged UK NGO was found to be non-existent. This revelation cast doubt on VDM’s accusations and further fueled the controversy.

Escalation and Public Perception

The feud between VDM, Nedu Wazobia, and Dee-One has continued to generate debate on social media ethics, defamation, and accountability. While VDM’s supporters argue that he is exposing corruption and financial misconduct, critics believe his methods involve sensationalism and character assassination.

Despite the intense exchanges, there are no confirmed legal proceedings between Nedu Wazobia and VDM at this time. However, the public fallout from the scandal has remained a hot topic in Nigerian digital media circles.

Other High-Profile Disputes

• Tonto Dikeh (2023): Otse accused the actress of hypocrisy in her charity work, claiming it was more about personal branding than genuine philanthropy.
• Mercy Eke (2023): He criticized the reality TV star’s promotion of skin-lightening products, labeling them harmful and exploitative.
• Davido and Chioma Scandal (2024): Otse insinuated on Instagram that Davido’s relationship with his wife Chioma was strained due to infidelity, causing massive backlash.

Legal Actions Involving Other Public Figures

Verydarkman (VDM) has found himself entangled in multiple legal battles, with several high-profile individuals and organizations taking legal action against him for alleged defamation, cyberbullying, and false accusations. Below are some of the key lawsuits and legal confrontations he has faced:

Arrests and Detainments

• March 2024 Arrest (Lagos): VDM was arrested in Lagos over allegations of cyberbullying and cyberstalking. Several actresses and public figures accused him of making defamatory statements that damaged their reputations. He was detained for two weeks before being released.

• June 2024 Arrest (Abuja): He was detained in Abuja on charges of defamation related to an exposé he had published on social media. Following police questioning, he was released without formal charges.

• Falana Chambers Ultimatum (September 2024): After posting controversial allegations about Femi Falana (SAN) on Instagram, Falana Chambers issued an official demand for a public retraction and apology. However, VDM refused to comply, insisting that his claims were “public knowledge.”

Ongoing Lawsuits

VDM is currently facing multiple lawsuits from various public figures, demanding substantial damages:

• Femi Falana & Folarin Falana: ₦500 million lawsuit for defamation.
• Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin: ₦1 billion lawsuit for alleged character assassination.
• Esinjemiyotan Atsepoyi (Mr. Jollof’s wife): ₦500 million lawsuit over alleged false accusations.
• Idris Okuneye (Bobrisky): ₦1 billion lawsuit related to defamatory statements.

VDM’s Response to Legal Challenges

Despite the numerous legal threats, VDM remains defiant. He has frequently dismissed the lawsuits as attempts to silence him, vowing to continue his outspoken activism against corruption and social misconduct.

However, these legal battles have significantly intensified public scrutiny on his methods of advocacy, with critics arguing that he crosses the line between social justice and cyberbullying.

Legal Action for Impersonating Police Officer Online

Martins Otse became embroiled in controversy following his arrest for allegedly impersonating a police officer. The incident stemmed from a viral video in which he appeared wearing a Nigeria Police Force uniform without authorization, referring to himself as “CSP VeryDarkMan” and claiming to be Nigeria’s “number one online police officer.” ​3

In response to the video’s circulation, the Nigeria Police Force condemned the unauthorized use of its uniform and announced that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command would handle the prosecution to uphold the integrity of police symbols and prevent their misuse. ​3

On November 1, 2024, Otse was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja, facing charges of impersonation and unauthorized use of police uniforms. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at ₦2 million, with stringent conditions including the provision of two sureties residing within the court’s jurisdiction, submission of international passports, and verification of addresses and utility bills. ​2

Prior to his arraignment, Otse had been detained by the police after responding to an official summons. Despite previously issuing a public apology, explaining that he was unaware that wearing the uniform without authorization constituted an offense, the authorities proceeded with legal action. ​1

This incident highlights the seriousness with which the Nigeria Police Force views the unauthorized use of its uniforms and the legal implications of impersonation.​3

Recent Arrest of Very Dark Man at the GTB bank

On May 2, 2025, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), was arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under controversial circumstances, sparking public outrage and legal debates regarding due process and constitutional rights.

The Arrest at GTBank

The incident occurred outside a branch of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) in Garki, Area 3, Abuja, where VDM had accompanied his mother, Mrs. Blessing Otse, and an associate, Steven Avuara (also known as C-Pack), to address alleged unauthorized deductions from her bank account. After the bank visit, the trio was reportedly accosted by armed men in black uniforms, who identified themselves as EFCC operatives.

According to eyewitness reports and accounts from VDM’s legal team, no arrest warrants were presented during the incident. All three individuals were allegedly blindfolded and taken into custody in a manner that raised serious questions about the legality and transparency of the arrest procedure. While the EFCC later confirmed the detention of VDM and Avuara, the whereabouts of Mrs. Otse remained unclear, prompting widespread concern about her safety.

EFCC’s Official Statement

On May 6, 2025, the EFCC released an official press statement through its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, addressing the arrest and ongoing investigation of Martins Otse. The agency stated that the arrest was not a retaliation for VDM’s public criticisms but rather a response to multiple petitions alleging financial crimes.

“The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Vincent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him. He refused to show up in spite of several invitations…”

The EFCC acknowledged that it was aware of VDM’s “unguarded attacks” on the commission but insisted that these were not the basis for his arrest. According to the statement, an appropriate Remand Order had been obtained, and administrative bail was offered to VDM upon fulfillment of set conditions.

“The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect… He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions.”

The commission also urged the public to refrain from speculating about its motives and to allow it to carry out its lawful duties “without fear or favour.”

Public Outcry and Legal Response

VDM’s arrest generated a significant backlash from fans, legal professionals, activists, and civil society organizations, who viewed it as part of a broader trend of targeting dissenting voices in Nigeria. His legal team condemned the arrest as a violation of constitutional rights, citing the lack of transparency and the unacknowledged detention of his mother.

Prominent Nigerian voices, including human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju and Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate and activist, called for his immediate release. The issue dominated discourse on Nigerian social media platforms, with hashtags like #FreeVeryDarkMan trending nationwide.

Release and Public Reaction

On May 7, 2025, after spending five days in EFCC detention, VeryDarkMan was released. The news was confirmed by Omoyele Sowore, who announced via his X (formerly Twitter) handle:

“Thanks to the unrelenting efforts of all, @thatverydarkman has been released from unjust detention at the @officialEFCC! He is with his ebullient lawyer, @adeyanjudeji.”

VDM’s release was widely celebrated online, with supporters hailing it as a victory for civil rights and free expression. Nonetheless, the incident has ignited ongoing conversations about press freedom, due process, and the use of state power in silencing activists.

Broader Implications

The arrest of VeryDarkMan raises critical questions about the balance between anti-corruption enforcement and the protection of fundamental human rights. While the EFCC insists it was acting within the law, the manner and context of the arrest—coupled with VDM’s history of institutional criticism—have led many to question the selective application of justice in Nigeria.

As of now, the EFCC has not formally charged VDM with any crime, although it confirmed that charges would be filed upon the conclusion of investigations. Legal analysts and human rights groups are watching closely to ensure the proceedings adhere to Nigeria’s constitutional standards and international human rights obligations.

Personal Life

Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), maintains a paradoxical public image—simultaneously outspoken and private. While he frequently shares his thoughts on controversial issues and social behavior, he has disclosed very little about his romantic relationships or sexual orientation. In his own words, he has “never been in a romantic relationship”, a statement that, rather than ending speculation, has fueled further curiosity and online gossip regarding his personal life.

In several self-recorded videos, VDM has made candid admissions about his struggles with habitual masturbation, referring to himself as a “serial masturbator” and describing his ongoing efforts to overcome it, albeit with little success. These raw, unfiltered confessions reflect a pattern in his content: brutal honesty about his personal flaws and taboo subjects.

More controversially, archived videos and public statements show that VDM has acknowledged engaging in sexual behaviors with men in the past, including instances where he claimed to have “sold his nude images to men” and received sexual attention from them. In one viral clip, he openly stated that he had “used his hand to patronize men sexually,” a reference interpreted by many as an acknowledgment of past same-sex encounters, albeit non-romantic in nature.

Earlier in his career, VDM publicly defended LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria—a bold stance in a country where homosexuality is criminalized and widely condemned. He called out mob justice, persecution, and murder of homosexuals, and in one emotionally charged statement, declared that “God will punish those who kill gays.” In another, he questioned the moral inconsistencies in Nigerian society, pointing out the hypocrisy in applauding heterosexual men who boast of threesomes while condemning those involved in same-sex relationships.

“Why are Nigerians so selective when it comes to sin? Why is homosexuality a greater offense than adultery, threesomes, or violence?” — VeryDarkMan (archived video)

However, over time, VDM’s public stance on LGBTQ+ issues appears to have shifted dramatically. More recent videos show him condemning homosexuality, aligning more closely with cultural conservatism and distancing himself from his past remarks. This turn has sparked criticism from both supporters and detractors, with some accusing him of “selling out” his principles to protect his growing public profile in a deeply homophobic society. Critics argue that his change in rhetoric may be motivated by a desire to avoid cultural backlash, preserve brand partnerships, and navigate Nigeria’s patriarchal, religiously conservative social fabric.

This shift has prompted serious debate. Is VDM’s change of tone a reflection of personal evolution, a strategic rebranding, or social pressure? Whatever the case, it underscores the tension public figures face in Nigeria between personal authenticity and cultural acceptability.

While the speculations about his sexuality remain unproven and largely fueled by his own conflicting narratives, what is clear is that VDM’s personal life and sexual history are deeply intertwined with his advocacy, controversies, and cultural criticism. Whether his actions are perceived as hypocritical, brave, or strategic, they form a complex part of the ongoing story of a man who refuses to be easily categorized.

Legacy and Impact

Martins Vincent Otse’s journey is a story of extremes—of bold advocacy, public backlash, and an unrelenting desire to challenge societal norms. Whether loved or loathed, Otse has undeniably left his mark on Nigeria’s social and digital landscape. His story serves as both a cautionary tale about the perils of public life and a testament to the power of unyielding conviction.

References

Silverbird Communications. (2024, January 4). SMOTY: Don Jazzy, Toke Makinwa, Others Nominated For Silverbird Most Influential Influencer. Silverbird TV. Retrieved from https://www.silverbirdtv.com/smoty-nominations-for-silverbird-most-influential-influencer-unveiled/ (instagram.com)

Falana & Falana Chambers. (2024). Public ultimatum to Martins Vincent Otse. [Letter]. (Referenced in public commentary).

VeryDarkMan [@verydarkblackman]. (2023, September 24). Instagram critique of Bobrisky. Instagram post. (Referenced via screenshots and reportage).

Premium Times Nigeria. (2024, March 15). Defamation suit—Mercy Chinwo’s case against VDM is “a complete joke”—Deji Adeyanju. Premium Times. Retrieved from https://www.premiumtimesng.com/entertainment/naija-fashion/781115-defamation-suit-mercy-chinwos-case-against-vdm-is-complete-joke-deji-adeyanju.html

Vanguard News. (2024, October 17). Don Jazzy supports VeryDarkman’s NGO with N100 million. Vanguard News. Retrieved from https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/10/don-jazzy-supports-verydarkmans-ngo-with-n100m/

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