Justice F. Azeez of a Lagos High Court has dismissed the preliminary objection filed by social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), in the ₦1 billion defamation suit brought against him by renowned lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, musician Folarin Falana (Falz).

In the ruling delivered on Tuesday, May 20, the judge held that VDM’s application lacked merit and awarded ₦200,000 in costs — ₦100,000 each to Femi and Falz. The court also directed VDM to immediately file his defence.

The Falanas filed the suit over a video VDM published on Instagram (@verydarkblackman) on September 24, 2024, which they described as defamatory and damaging to their reputations. They are jointly seeking ₦1 billion in damages (₦500 million each) and a perpetual injunction restraining VDM and his associates from making or sharing similar content.

While Folarin Falana was present in court, VDM was absent but represented by his counsel, Marvin Omorogbe. Femi Falana was represented by Ernest Olawanle and Femi Akinyemi.

The case continues as the defendant is expected to file his defence.