Police Re-arraign VeryDarkMan Over Alleged Cyberbullying of Iyabo Ojo, Tonto Dikeh, Samklef, Among Others

In a surprising turn of events, popular social media influencer and activist, VeryDarkMan, has been re-arraigned by the police over allegations of cyberbullying several prominent Nigerian celebrities, including Iyabo Ojo, Tonto Dikeh, Samklef, and others. The case, which has garnered significant attention online, continues to evolve as legal proceedings unfold.

VeryDarkMan, known for his outspoken presence on social media, was initially apprehended following complaints lodged by the alleged victims, who claimed that his online posts and statements constituted harassment and defamation. The police, in a recent statement, disclosed that the influencer has been re-arraigned to face charges relating to cyberbullying, which is considered a serious offense under Nigerian law.

The re-arraignment took place at the Federal High Court, where the prosecution presented fresh evidence to support their claims. According to the charge sheet, VeryDarkMan is accused of using his social media platforms to make defamatory and injurious statements against the complainants, causing harm to their reputations and mental well-being. The prosecution further alleged that the content shared by VeryDarkMan went beyond the boundaries of free speech, amounting to a calculated campaign of harassment against the victims.

Iyabo Ojo, a popular actress and entrepreneur, expressed her distress over the alleged cyberbullying, stating that the online attacks had taken a toll on her mental health. In a similar vein, Tonto Dikeh, another well-known actress and philanthropist, recounted how the derogatory remarks made by VeryDarkMan had affected her personally and professionally. Musician Samklef also joined the list of complainants, asserting that the influencer’s statements had caused him undue distress.

Supporters of VeryDarkMan, however, have rallied behind the influencer, claiming that his statements were merely expressions of opinion and should be protected under the right to free speech. They argue that the allegations are part of a coordinated effort to silence critical voices on social media. Many of his followers took to various online platforms to voice their support, using hashtags to call for his release and condemn what they described as an infringement on free expression.

Legal experts have weighed in on the matter, highlighting the complex intersection between freedom of speech and cyberbullying. While Nigerian law guarantees the right to express opinions, it also criminalizes acts that harm others through digital communication. Under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act of 2015, cyberbullying and defamation through electronic communication can attract significant penalties, including imprisonment.

During the court proceedings, the defense counsel for VeryDarkMan argued that the charges were baseless and politically motivated. They maintained that the posts cited as evidence were opinions shared in the public interest and should not be criminalized. The defense further asserted that the charges violated their client’s constitutional rights and vowed to challenge the case up to the Supreme Court if necessary.

Meanwhile, public opinion remains divided. While some Nigerians have criticized VeryDarkMan for crossing the line with his online commentary, others believe that his outspoken nature is vital in holding celebrities and public figures accountable. The case has sparked debates on social media, with users discussing the limits of online speech and whether celebrities should be more tolerant of public criticism.

The presiding judge, while acknowledging the heated public discourse, cautioned both parties to refrain from making further public statements that could jeopardize the trial’s integrity. The court adjourned the case to a later date, ordering that VeryDarkMan remain in police custody pending the outcome of the bail application filed by his legal team.

As the case unfolds, the spotlight remains on the evolving dynamics of social media interactions and the legal responsibilities of digital influencers. Many are keenly watching to see how the judiciary balances the fundamental rights of freedom of expression with the need to protect individuals from harmful online behavior. The outcome of the trial could set a significant precedent, influencing how cyberbullying cases are handled in the future.

In the meantime, VeryDarkMan’s supporters continue to advocate for his release, while critics insist that justice must be served for the alleged victims. The case, marked by its high-profile nature and the involvement of well-known personalities, remains a topic of intense public interest. The legal battle is far from over, and the final judgment could have far-reaching implications for online conduct and accountability in Nigeria.