Court Sets January Hearing for Defamation Case Between Falana Family and VeryDarkMan

…Court orders activist to remove alleged defamatory content pending further proceedings.

…Preliminary objections raised over administrative process errors and writ filing issues.

An Ikeja High Court has scheduled January 23, 2025, to hear the defamation suit filed by prominent lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and his son, rapper Folarin “Falz” Falana, against online activist Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

The lawsuit centers on alleged defamatory statements made by VDM, which the Falanas argue have damaged their reputations.

During Thursday’s proceedings, the claimants’ counsel, Mr. Muiz Banire (SAN), informed the court that the originating process had been filed and served on the defendant. However, Justice Matthias Dawodu noted that the originating process was not currently before the court. Banire requested an adjournment to complete administrative procedures, which the court granted.

In response, VDM’s counsel, Mr. Marvin Omorogbe, questioned the validity of the writ, citing procedural issues with the suit number tied to a previous preemptive remedy order. Omorogbe argued that a new writ of summons should have been filed with a different suit number, urging the court to strike out the lawsuit.

Justice Dawodu ordered that an October 18 motion for appeal be withdrawn, after Banire raised no objections. The judge then set a hearing date of January 23, 2025, to address preliminary objections regarding the alleged procedural errors.

The court had previously issued an interim injunction on October 14, directing VeryDarkMan to remove a video he had posted on September 24, which the Falanas allege contains defamatory content. The injunction followed an ex parte application by the Falanas, specifically targeting an unverified recording that reportedly included claims from social media personality Bobrisky, accusing the Falanas of justice perversion.

This defamation case highlights ongoing legal battles surrounding online content and reputation, as both sides prepare for what could be a prolonged dispute in court.