A Lagos High Court has ordered social media critic, Martin Otse (popularly known as VeryDarkMan) to remove defamatory comments and videos about lawyer and rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana, and his son, Folarin Falana (popularly known as Falz). Additionally, the court imposed a N500 million fine for libel.
Justice M. O. Idowu delivered the judgement on Tuesday in a case which centered around defamatory remarks and videos posted by VeryDarkMan on 24 September 2024, linking the Falana family to controversial internet personality, Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye (well known as Bobrisky).
The court found the statements to be defamatory and damaging to the public image of both the senior Falana, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and his son. L
According to the ruling, the social media critic knew the claims were false but published them with the intent to harm their reputations.
“The defamatory statements continue to trend on the defendant’s social media platforms, causing ongoing harm to the applicants’ reputation as long as the publications remain online”, Justice Idowu said.
The court directed VeryDarkMan to immediately take down the content in question.
Femi Falana has a long history of activism and legal work in the defence of civil liberties.
His son, Folarin, is a well-known rapper, actor, and lawyer who is also recognised for his social and political activism, particularly through his music and public engagements.
The incident stemmed from defamatory comments and videos posted by VeryDarkMan, on his social media accounts.
On 24 September 2024, he allegedly made unsubstantiated claims linking Falanas to controversial cross-dresser Bobrisky.
