Lagos Nigeria Match 6,2025

Renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo has initiated legal proceedings against controversial social media critic Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over alleged defamatory statements made against her.

The lawsuit, filed on 3 March 2025 at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja, demands N1.1 billion in damages. Mercy’s legal team, Law Corridor, claims VDM’s social media posts were “libellous, malicious, and injurious” to her reputation.

VDM’s Allegations

VDM’s accusations emerged in February amid Mercy’s legal battle with her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu (EeZee Tee). He alleged that Mercy collected payments for performances without remitting them to EeZee Conceptz, violating contractual agreements.

Mercy’s lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, stated that VDM was never involved in the dispute but made false claims that damaged her public image.

Legal Demands

Mercy is seeking:

• N1 billion as general damages for defamation.
• N100 million as punitive and aggravated damages.
• N25 million to cover legal costs.
• A court order compelling VDM to delete the defamatory posts and issue a public apology in four national newspapers for 14 consecutive days.
• A 10% annual interest on the judgment sum until full payment.

The suit cites multiple statements made by VDM, including claims that Mercy secretly collected money from shows and was responsible for EeZee Tee’s detention by the EFCC.

Background

Mercy’s fallout with EeZee Conceptz stemmed from a contractual dispute over revenue sharing and royalties. EeZee Tee accused her of financial misconduct, while she claimed he withheld $345,000 in royalties.

A Federal High Court in Lagos upheld an arrest warrant against EeZee Tee on 17 February, but the EFCC later withdrew it, citing the matter as a civil dispute. Both parties are reportedly exploring an out-of-court settlement.

Meanwhile, Mercy’s lawsuit against VDM highlights the increasing legal consequences of defamatory statements on social media. The court proceedings will determine whether the gospel singer’s claims hold merit.