Controversial social media critic, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has applied for permission from the Lagos State High Court to appeal a ruling delivered in favor of renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, musician Folarin Falana, also known as Falz. The court ruling, issued by Justice M.O. Dawodu on October 14, 2024, was a response to an alleged defamation suit filed by the Falanas.
The defamation case centers on a recorded conversation posted by VeryDarkMan involving popular cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, who claimed he sought legal and financial assistance from Falz during a period of legal trouble. The Falanas’ suit seeks a retraction from VeryDarkMan over statements they deemed defamatory, including claims that Falz was involved in securing a presidential pardon for Bobrisky, who allegedly requested N3 million for VIP treatment during detention.
Justice Dawodu’s October 14 ruling mandated that VeryDarkMan remove any defamatory videos or comments targeting the Falanas and refrain from further publications regarding the matter.
In response, VeryDarkMan filed two motions on October 18, requesting the court’s leave to appeal. The applications, marked ID/8584/GCM/2024 and ID/8586/GCM/2024, argue that the court’s order was based solely on the Falanas’ affidavit, lacking counter-arguments from VeryDarkMan’s legal team. He emphasized that the court’s refusal to allow an appeal could result in “a miscarriage of justice,” contending that the appeal raises significant legal questions worthy of higher judicial review.
In an affidavit signed by his lawyer, Oladimeji Joseph, VeryDarkMan underscored the importance of appellate review to ensure the correct application of law and safeguard justice. Joseph noted the requirement for VeryDarkMan to secure court approval for his appeal within 14 days of the ruling.
The case has stirred public interest, with the Falanas underscoring the need for accountability in social media commentary, while VeryDarkMan maintains that his appeal represents a crucial step toward safeguarding freedom of expression and fair judicial processes.