An Ikeja High Court has adjourned the hearing of a preliminary objection filed by social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to February 19.
The objection challenges the defamation suit filed against him by renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, musician Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz.
The lawsuit, initiated in 2024, stems from allegations made in an audio recording by crossdresser Bobrisky, accusing Falana and Falz of perverting justice.
VDM reportedly shared the recording, which the plaintiffs consider defamatory.
VeryDarkMan’s lawyer, Marvin Omorogbe, filed a preliminary objection, arguing that the Lagos court lacks territorial jurisdiction to entertain the case.
Omorogbe noted that VDM resides and conducts business in Abuja, where the alleged defamatory publication was made.
He urged the court to dismiss the case for lack of jurisdiction.
At Thursday’s hearing, Omorogbe informed Justice Matthias Dawodu that the plaintiffs had filed a counter-affidavit opposing the objection, which he received the day before.
He requested more time to respond, a request the plaintiffs’ counsel, Omotade Omotunbosun, did not oppose.
Justice Dawodu subsequently adjourned the case.
This development follows several earlier proceedings.
On November 14, 2024, the court postponed the case after VDM’s lawyer argued there was no valid writ of summons before the court.
The plaintiffs were also ordered to refile an administrative process.
In October 2024, the court issued an ex parte order directing VDM to remove the alleged defamatory video from his social media platform.
The video, shared on September 24, 2024, was flagged as harmful to the reputation of Falana and Falz.
The next hearing will address both the preliminary objection and other procedural matters.
