Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has revealed that he and his family have been receiving death threats following his decision to take legal action against activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as ‘VeryDarkMan.’
Falana, who is known for his strong stance on justice and human rights, disclosed that some individuals had threatened to kill his daughter and burn down his office. This development has sparked widespread attention, as Falana has vowed not to back down despite the threats.
The entire saga began when an audio recording surfaced online, purportedly involving Bobrisky, the well-known Nigerian crossdresser.
In the clip, Bobrisky alleged that Falana and his son, popular rapper Falz, contacted her during her six-month imprisonment for naira abuse, claiming they tried to secure a presidential pardon for her in exchange for N10 million.
Bobrisky has since denied the authenticity of the recording, calling it a fabrication, and threatening to sue the activist VeryDarkMan, who initially shared the audio.
Falana and Falz, in response, also threatened legal action against the activist unless he publicly retracts his statements and offers an apology.
The situation escalated when VeryDarkMan, known for his vocal activism, expressed his disappointment in Falana and claimed he had lost respect for the lawyer.
This has led to a back-and-forth of accusations, defamation threats, and now death threats.
Speaking in an interview with Sahara Reporters on Monday, Falana described the threats against him and his daughter as deeply disturbing.
He shared that unknown individuals had warned him against pursuing legal action, saying, “If you go to court, we shall burn your office.”
In addition, they sent chilling messages to one of his daughters, threatening, “If your father goes to court, we shall kill you.”
Falana, however, dismissed the threats, vowing to continue with the case and assuring his family of their safety.
“I just laughed,” he said, expressing disbelief that such threats could be made in a country governed by law and order.
“I have asked my girl not to worry. I will take it up. I have already taken it up,” he stated firmly, adding that he is ready to confront those behind the threats.
Falana, a seasoned lawyer with decades of experience, has faced several challenges throughout his career, but he remains undeterred by this latest episode.
“I will let these guys know where we are coming from,” he said, sending a clear message that he will not be intimidated by threats or fear.
The feud between Falana and VeryDarkMan has highlighted the growing tension between prominent legal figures and social media activists in Nigeria.
VeryDarkMan, who has gained popularity for his outspoken criticism of various issues, has a large following on social media. His clash with Falana has generated significant online reactions, with many of his supporters backing his claims.
However, Falana, known for his legal expertise and activism in defending human rights, has drawn a line with this case. His decision to seek legal redress against VeryDarkMan signals a growing resolve among public figures to combat what they see as defamatory and false accusations in the digital age.
Legal experts argue that this case could set a precedent for how similar disputes involving defamation and online activism are handled in Nigeria’s courts.
Amid the controversy, Bobrisky has vehemently denied any involvement in the purported conversation that sparked the issue.
In a statement, Bobrisky accused VeryDarkMan of creating the audio clip in a bid to stir controversy and tarnish her reputation.
She has vowed to take legal action against the activist for defamation, describing the recording as “false and damaging.”
This legal battle has now turned into a complex dispute involving multiple parties, all of whom are threatening to sue one another.
