Diaspora Coalition Serves Legal Notice on VeryDarkMan Over Alleged Defamatory Remarks
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A diaspora-based civic organisation, Future Platform–Diaspora Group, has formally issued a legal notice to social media personality Martin Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, over comments it claims are defamatory toward Seyi Tinubu.
In a statement released at the weekend, the group expressed concern about what it described as rising cases of online harassment and reputational attacks across Nigeria’s digital landscape. It warned that public figures who circulate unverified allegations risk facing legal consequences under existing laws.
The statement, signed by the group’s convener, Austine Dafe, and its publicity secretary, Kunle Olaosebikan, emphasised that while freedom of expression is constitutionally protected, it is not absolute. According to the group, speech that damages an individual’s reputation without substantiated evidence may amount to defamation.
The organisation argued that individuals with significant online followings wield considerable influence and must exercise caution when making public allegations. It maintained that digital platforms should not be used as avenues for character attacks lacking credible proof.
Future Platform–Diaspora Group called on Otse to immediately halt any further publication or repetition of statements it considers injurious to Tinubu’s reputation. It also demanded a public retraction of the remarks in question and a formal apology to be issued through the same online channels where the comments were allegedly shared.
The group stated that failure to comply could prompt it to pursue civil remedies, including claims for damages, in accordance with Nigerian law. It added that legal action remains an option should the alleged conduct persist.
While clarifying that it does not seek to stifle legitimate criticism or democratic engagement, the organisation stressed that accountability in public discourse strengthens democratic institutions. It further urged stricter enforcement of cybercrime and defamation laws to protect individuals from reputational harm in the digital space.
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