•Falana, Bobrisky and VeryDarkMan
A Lagos-based human rights lawyer, Joe Nwokedi, Esq, has stated that Mr. Martins Otse, otherwise known as Verydarkman (VDM), overstepped the bounds of his fundamental right to freedom of expression as contained in Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) by accusing Chief Femi Falana, SAN, of complicity in a bribery allegation involving the crossdresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.
Mr. Nwokedi, a known human rights advocate, emphasised that while the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), particularly Chapter IV, Section 39, guarantees all Nigerian citizens the right to freedom of expression, such rights are not absolute. These freedoms are subject to certain limitations, particularly those outlined in Sections 24, 25, and 26 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, which regulate how these rights may be exercised.
Nwokedi made this known in a statement issued today and made available to The Frontier.
He headlined the statement, “Defaming Chief Femi Falana, SAN, and Mr. Folarin (a.k.a Falz): VeryDarkMan (VDM) overstepped the bounds of freedom of expression – Joe Nwokedi, Esq.”
According to Mr. Nwokedi, these rights do not grant any citizen the unbridled liberty to speak recklessly, engage in character assassination, or make defamatory and disdainful statements intended to tarnish the reputation of individuals or groups.
“Such statements must be substantiated with adequate evidence or proof when challenged, especially in a court of law.
“Mr. Martins Otse (VDM), by making unverified allegations against Chief Femi Falana, SAN—a highly respected human rights activist and advocate for the people—demonstrated carelessness with words. “This is particularly concerning given the gravity of making such accusations without proper verification. Nwokedi noted that unverified public statements can lead to litigation and are actionable under the law,” said Nwokedi.
Continuing, Nwokedi said, “In the case involving Mr. Otse, Chief Femi Falana, SAN, and his son, the accusations became the subject of legal proceedings. VDM faced the burden of proving the authenticity and veracity of his claims regarding the alleged involvement of Chief Falana in issues concerning Bobrisky. His failure to substantiate these claims resulted in a judgment against him, awarding damages of Five Hundred Million Naira (₦500,000,000) for defamation.
“This sum now hangs over him unless the judgment is overturned on appeal, which is unlikely”
Mr. Nwokedi advised that social media enthusiasts and individuals seeking clout should exercise caution, as the fundamental right to freedom of speech enshrined in the Constitution is not absolute.
