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| Activist barred from posts until next hearing.facade |
Court watchers and faith followers alike tuned in when Justice Aliu Shafa took his seat in the FCT High Court, Nyanya, Abuja. The day's matter pitted social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse—known online as Verydarkman or VDM—against Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin, head of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry. The clash centred on claims of libel and cyberbullying. Mr. Fufeyin sued for ₦1 billion, saying VDM’s posts harmed his reputation. At the session, VDM’s bid to halt the suit was refused.
VDM argued that the court papers filed by Mr. Fufeyin were faulty. He said the suit was not properly filed or stamped. He claimed this flaw should end the case now. His lawyer pressed that the technical missteps meant the court had no power to hear the matter.
But Justice Shafa said the claim of fault did not hold. He found that any minor filing hiccups were cured by subsequent actions. The judge pointed out that the core documents were in order. He said the court could go on to hear the facts of the case.
In a clear ruling, Justice Shafa struck out VDM’s preliminary objection. That step cleared the way for Mr. Fufeyin’s suit to proceed in full. The judge then granted a status quo injunction. VDM must stop posting or sharing any content about the prophet until the suit ends.
The order took effect immediately. VDM can no longer publish remarks or videos on social platforms that relate to Mr. Fufeyin. He is barred from any further alleged defamatory action. Violation could draw sanctions or fines.
Mr. Fufeyin’s lead counsel, Ihensekhien Samuel, praised the ruling. He said the court’s decision shields his client from fresh attacks. He noted that it also ensures peace as the matter moves on.
In April, Mr. Fufeyin filed his claim. He listed posts where VDM questioned the quality of his faith products. The prophet’s items include “miracle water,” mustard seed, and spiritual shirts. VDM had warned the public to check for NAFDAC approval. He even tested the water on disabled persons in Abuja. When healing did not occur, he spoke out.
Mr. Fufeyin’s suit says these acts brought him shame. It says his church lost donors. It claims business partners grew wary. The filing recalls multiple videos and social posts over months.
VDM rose to fame on podcasts and TikTok. He is known for calling out public figures. His motto invites transparency from leaders. He has pressed others to show proof of claims.
His challenge to Mr. Fufeyin was in line with that stance. He pressed the prophet to show lab tests or certification for the “miracle” brand. He asked why the water healed in Warri but not at an Abuja centre.
After the ruling, VDM took to his channel to react. He urged followers to stay calm. He vowed to fight on, but within legal bounds. He said he respects the court and will defend his right to speak.
Supporters on both sides voiced views online. Some lauded the court for upholding process. Others said free speech must still be protected. The debate trended across Twitter and Instagram.
Legal analysts note this step is routine. Courts often clear preliminary hurdles before probing facts. They say many suits face such early skirmishes.
Still, the status quo order is key. It prevents flare-ups. It stops new posts till judges weigh the evidence. That helps keep tempers cool.
Justice Shafa fixed the next hearing for October 27. Both sides must file written briefs by then. Witness lists and proofs are due soon.
The court may next hear testimony. Experts in social media reach and reputation harm could appear. Economists might quantify lost donations. Marketing pros could speak on brand damage.
Mr. Fufeyin’s team says they will call church elders. They plan to show past growth in giving and vows of support. They will link the dip in support to VDM’s campaign.
VDM’s lawyers say they will prove their posts were fair comment. They will ask whether public figures give up some privacy. They may test legal limits on free speech in Nigeria.
Observers note this case is a sign of the times. Social media voices now face real court checks. Influencers learn that posts can bring big suits. They see the need for care in claims online.
Faith heads also see warnings. Some may think twice before suing over tweets. But many say reputation matters. They see the law as a shield.
The case shines a light on Nigeria’s libel laws. It shows how defamation suits can run long. It shows how judges balance rights to speak and rights to protect image.
For now, both sides brace for the long haul. They will probe deep. They will gather facts. And they will test law’s edge.
In the end, this fight may set shape on online speech and faith claims. It may guide future cases on what counts as fair talk.
Next steps hinge on the October date. Both camps must ready their proofs. The court will sift evidence then. The final word will only come later.
Until then, the judge’s order stands. VDM must pause his posts. Mr. Fufeyin can rest in a small measure of calm. And watchers wait as this modern media-law clash unfolds.