Popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo has filed a defamation lawsuit against social media commentator Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), demanding N1.1 billion in damages.
The lawsuit, dated March 3, was filed by Chinwo’s legal counsel, Pelumi Olajengbesi, in response to allegations made by VDM concerning financial misconduct and breach of contract.
Allegations Against Mercy Chinwo
In February, VDM accused Chinwo of diverting funds from shows without remitting payments to her former record label, owned by Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, popularly known as EeZee Tee. He also alleged that the singer violated her contract before parting ways with the label.
According to the lawsuit, Olajengbesi described VDM’s statements as “libellous, malicious, and damaging” to Chinwo’s reputation. He argued that VDM, despite having no direct involvement in the dispute between Chinwo and her former record label, falsely presented the issue in a manner that harmed the singer’s public image.
Claims of Defamation and Character Assassination
The lawsuit accuses VDM of creating multiple videos targeting Chinwo, which were shared with his large online audience. Olajengbesi argued that these videos depicted Chinwo in a “caricaturist and disdainful” manner while favoring EeZee Tee’s position in the dispute.
“The Claimant avers that she has neither had any form of relationship with the Defendant nor was the Defendant involved in the issue between the Claimant and Mr. EeZee Tee in any material particular,” the legal document states.
“The statements made by the Defendant in the videos were as though he was personally involved in the matter, but these claims were not only false but also damning and injurious to the Claimant’s public image and reputation.”
Legal Demands and Compensation
Mercy Chinwo’s legal team is seeking multiple court orders against VDM, including:
• The removal of all defamatory content from his social media platforms.
• A public retraction of the statements and an unreserved apology published in two widely circulated national newspapers and on all of his social media accounts.
• N1 billion in general damages for defamation.
• N100 million as punitive and aggravated damages.
• N25 million as the cost of the lawsuit.
• A 10% annual interest on the total judgment sum until full payment is made.
• The publication of the apology in four national dailies for a minimum of 14 consecutive days.
Background of the Dispute
The lawsuit comes after ongoing tensions between Chinwo and EeZee Tee. In January, the gospel singer accused her former record label owner of exploitation, issuing threats, and spreading false rumors regarding the paternity of her child.
The conflict has since drawn widespread attention, with VDM’s commentary further fueling the controversy.
Potential Legal Ramifications
If the court rules in Chinwo’s favor, it could set a precedent for defamation cases in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, particularly regarding social media commentaries and online influence. Meanwhile, VDM has yet to publicly respond to the lawsuit.
This case highlights the increasing legal battles involving public figures and the impact of social media on personal and professional reputations.
Legal experts believe that it may serve as a cautionary tale for influencers and commentators who make allegations without concrete evidence.
Observers are keenly watching whether VDM will comply with Chinwo’s demands or choose to contest the lawsuit in court, which could lead to a prolonged legal battle with significant implications for both parties
