Controversial activist Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, has firmly denied allegations of defamation made by human rights lawyer Femi Falana and rapper Falz. This comes after the duo issued a 24-hour ultimatum for VeryDarkMan to retract a publication in which they were accused of facilitating a lenient treatment for cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, during his recent legal troubles.
Bobrisky was sentenced to three months in prison for naira mutilation after being arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He was released on August 5, 2024. Following his release, VeryDarkMan leaked an alleged voice recording in which Bobrisky claimed that Falana and his son, Falz, played a role in persuading the EFCC to drop money laundering charges against him.
In response to these allegations, Chief Falana and Falz, through their legal representative, denied any involvement and demanded a public retraction and apology from VeryDarkMan.
In a video message shared on his social media platforms, VeryDarkMan addressed the controversy. “I never defamed Uncle Femi Falana, and I’ll never do so. Uncle Femi Falana is somebody that I respect so much. Not because of his position as a SAN but because of what he has used his position to do, representing the likes of me that speak against the ills of society, abuse of power, abuse of influence and also the bad dealings of the government,” he stated.
He explained his reasoning for sharing the audio, saying, “I only reacted to the call Bobrisky made. He was the one that alleged that Falz connected him to Uncle Femi Falana and bla bla bla N10 million.” VeryDarkMan further emphasized his disbelief in the allegations, adding, “And what I said was that I chose not to believe that Uncle Femi Falana would be associated with that and if I would be disappointed because of his position in society.”
In closing, he mentioned his decision to include the allegations in the leaked audio, stating, “I had an option of cutting off the part of the leaked audio where Bobrisky mentioned Falz but I refused because I want a thorough investigation on the matter.” This ongoing controversy highlights the complex interplay of social media, activism, and public perception in contemporary Nigeria.