Nigerian-American Healthcare Specialist Threatens N1 Billion Defamation Lawsuit Against Social Media Influencer VeryDarkMan
A Nigerian-American healthcare specialist, Kelvin Onyiaeze, has issued a stern threat to file a N1 billion defamation lawsuit against popular social media commentator Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan. This legal action follows allegations made by the influencer in a viral video, which Onyiaeze has vehemently denied as false and malicious.
Allegations and Response in Abuja Briefing
During a press briefing held in Abuja, Onyiaeze disclosed his intention to pursue legal recourse against VeryDarkMan. The influencer had accused him of involvement in land-grabbing activities, claims that Onyiaeze described as a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation and incite public hostility. He emphasized that these allegations are baseless and designed to tarnish his professional standing.
Support from the North American-Africa Coalition
At the same event, the North American-Africa Coalition (NACA) came forward to defend Onyiaeze, portraying him as an accomplished professional with an impeccable record. The coalition condemned the allegations as a calculated effort to mislead the public and warned that the situation could escalate beyond Nigeria's borders, potentially affecting international relations.
The coalition stated: "The allegations contained in the viral video are a total falsehood and a coordinated attempt at character assassination. Mr. Kelvin Onyiaeze is a law-abiding United States citizen and a distinguished healthcare specialist." They expressed concern over the use of social media to malign professionals, particularly those in the diaspora, highlighting the risks involved.
Concerns Over Social Media Weaponization and International Implications
NACA further warned that weaponizing social media to destroy the livelihood of an international healthcare professional is not only wicked but also poses a threat to the safety of the diaspora community. They noted with alarm that VeryDarkMan had tagged the U.S. State Department in the controversial claims, risking the spread of misinformation through diplomatic channels and amplifying the issue globally.
Legal Framework and Accusations of Cybercrime Violations
Citing the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, the coalition argued that the content in question may constitute cyberstalking, bullying, and the dissemination of harmful material intended to cause fear and reputational damage. Onyiaeze echoed these sentiments, accusing VeryDarkMan of breaching the same law and stressing that the digital space must not be treated as lawless.
Onyiaeze asserted: "We wish to remind the public and authorities that the digital space is not a lawless vacuum. The actions of 'VeryDarkMan' constitute violations relating to cyberstalking, bullying, and the spread of harmful content capable of causing reputational harm."
Calls for Investigation and Legal Action
Onyiaeze called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, to investigate the matter thoroughly and take appropriate action. He urged these bodies, along with the Office of the Attorney General, to intervene promptly to deter individuals from using digital platforms for blackmail and defamation for clout or financial gain.
He further disclosed that his legal team, led by Barrister Abubarka Orumah, has been directed to commence legal proceedings. This includes filing a libel and defamation suit against VeryDarkMan, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations and the commitment to seeking justice through the legal system.
