Social media critic Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has approached the Lagos State High Court for permission to appeal a defamation ruling issued on October 14, 2024.
According to The PUNCH, the ruling delivered by Justice M.O. Dawodu, was in favor of prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana and his son, musician and activist Folarin Falana, also known as Falz.
The lawsuit, filed by the Falanas, centers on claims made by VeryDarkMan in a video alleging that Falz was involved in securing a presidential pardon for well-known social media personality Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky.
In a statement posted on Falz’s Instagram page and signed by lawyer Taiwo Olawanle, the Falanas’ legal team demanded a retraction of what they described as defamatory statements concerning Falz’s alleged financial and legal assistance to Bobrisky when he was detained for naira abuse.
According to court documents, Bobrisky purportedly reached out to Falz for N3 million to obtain VIP treatment at a correctional facility, a claim Falz and his father argue was falsely represented by VeryDarkMan.
Following the ruling, Justice Dawodu directed VeryDarkMan to take down the contentious video and all related comments from his social media platforms and refrain from further spreading similar material.
In response, VeryDarkMan filed two separate motions on October 18, arguing his right to appeal the court’s decision. In the court filing, he contends that the ruling was “based solely on the respondent’s affidavit” and raises several legal grounds to challenge the court’s decision.
“A refusal to grant leave may result in the enforcement of a decision that does not reflect a correct application of the law,” he argued in his motion, noting that the case raises important legal questions that warrant additional scrutiny. “Such discretion should be exercised judicially and judiciously,” he added.
VeryDarkMan’s attorney, Oladimeji Joseph, stated in an affidavit that securing the court’s permission is essential to protect his client’s right to a fair appeal.
“The Defendant has 14 days from the date of the ruling within which he must seek the leave of this Honourable Court and file an appeal,” Joseph explained, urging the court to grant the appeal request.
The outcome of this application will determine whether VeryDarkMan can continue his legal battle against the high-profile ruling.
