Controversial social media figure Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been re-arraigned by the police for allegedly cyberbullying popular actresses Tonto Dikeh and Iyabo Ojo. In addition to the actresses, the activist is also accused of targeting renowned Nigerian producer and singer Samuel Oguachuba, better known as Samklef, among others.
VDM faced the charges on Thursday before Justice Musa Liman at the Federal High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, where he was presented with a five-count indictment. However, he pleaded not guilty to the charges.
His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, requested that VDM be allowed to continue on the bail granted by Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon of a previous court. Counsel for the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Victor Okoye, did not oppose the request, and the judge upheld the earlier bail terms. The case has been adjourned to July 24 for trial.
This re-arraignment follows VDM’s initial appearance on May 22, 2024, before Justice Olajuwon on similar charges under Section 24 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015. On June 10, 2024, he was granted bail in the sum of N10 million, with two sureties who must either be employees of reputable companies or Level 17 civil servants with proof of three years’ tax clearance.
