The Lagos High Court in Ikeja has adjourned the defamation suit filed by human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, Folarin Falana (Falz), against social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to February 19.
Justice Matthias Dawodu fixed the date on Thursday to hear a preliminary objection filed by VDM’s lawyer, Marvin Omorogbe, challenging the competence of the suit and the court’s jurisdiction.
Omorogbe requested more time to respond to a counter affidavit filed by the Falanas.
The plaintiffs’ lawyer, Omotade Omotunbosun, did not oppose the adjournment request.
The Falanas are seeking ₦500 million in damages each, alleging that a video posted by VDM on September 24, 2024, falsely accused them of collecting ₦10 million from Idris Okuneye (Bobrisky) to influence justice.
In October 2024, Justice Dawodu ordered VDM to remove the video and restrained him from further defamatory publications against the Falanas.
However, VDM’s lawyer has argued that the court lacks jurisdiction as the alleged defamatory publication originated in Abuja, where the defendant resides.
The Falanas maintain that the claims made in the video are false, defamatory, and have caused ongoing damage to their reputation.
They also seek an apology from VDM on his social media platforms and in a national newspaper.
The case continues on February 19.
