VeryDarkMan, the social media influencer, has taken legal steps to challenge a Lagos State High Court ruling that favored human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, musician and activist Folarin Falana, also known as Falz. The ruling, delivered by Justice M.O. Dawodu on October 14, 2024, addressed alleged defamatory statements that VeryDarkMan reportedly made regarding a conversation involving cross-dresser Bobrisky. In the conversation, Bobrisky allegedly sought ₦3 million from Falz to secure VIP treatment in detention.
Justice Dawodu’s ruling ordered VeryDarkMan to remove defamatory content about the Falanas posted on September 24, 2024, from his social media platforms. Additionally, the court prohibited him from posting any further defamatory remarks about the Falanas.
In his recent motions, dated October 18, VeryDarkMan is seeking an extension to appeal this decision, arguing that the court order was solely based on the Falanas’ affidavit without adequate cross-examination. He claims that denying him the chance to appeal could result in a “miscarriage of justice,” as it would enforce a ruling that he believes might misapply legal principles and negatively impact the integrity of the justice system.
This case highlights significant questions about freedom of speech, the responsibilities of influencers, and the balance between personal expression and the protection of reputational rights in Nigeria’s legal landscape.
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