A Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), following allegations of criminal defamation against renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The court’s directive mandates the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to apprehend and present VDM in court to face the charges.
Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna issued the warrant on March 13, 2025, after VDM failed to appear in court, disregarding a summons dated March 5. Despite assurances from VDM’s legal representative, Deji Adeyanju, to personally ensure his client’s attendance, the magistrate denied the plea and insisted on enforcing the arrest order.
The controversy stems from VDM’s social media posts accusing Chinwo of misappropriating $345,000 in a contractual dispute involving her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee. Chinwo’s legal team, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi, presented documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, refuting these allegations and asserting that VDM’s statements are false and damaging to her reputation.
The prosecution contends that VDM’s actions violate Section 391 of the Penal Code and Section 24(1)(B) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015. In addition to the criminal proceedings, Chinwo has filed a ₦1.1 billion civil lawsuit against VDM at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, seeking a public apology, retraction, and deletion of the allegedly defamatory statements.
Mercy Chinwo, celebrated for her powerful vocals and inspiring gospel music, gained prominence after winning Nigerian Idol Season 2 in 2012. Her notable works include the hit single “Excess Love” released in 2018. Over the years, she has garnered several awards, including the Best Gospel Artiste at the CLIMAX Awards in 2018 and multiple honors at the Africa Gospel Awards Festival (AGAFEST) in 2019.
