Popular Nigerian critic, Verydarkman, has publicly criticised actress Mercy Johnson following the arrest of TikTok content creator Eedie Bliss over allegations that she defamed the actress’s family. The incident has sparked widespread debate online, with many questioning the use of police powers in what is considered a civil matter.
The controversy stems from unverified rumours that circulated in December 2025. According to reports, Mercy Johnson’s husband, Prince Henry Okojie, allegedly bought a mansion for another woman who was reportedly pregnant for him outside his marriage. Eedie Bliss, a TikTok influencer, shared a video discussing the rumours, citing Cutie Juls blog as her source. In the video, she claimed that Mercy Johnson allegedly colluded with the mistress’s house help to cause a miscarriage.
Following the publication of the video, Eedie Bliss was arrested and detained in Abuja after a petition was filed by Prince Henry Okojie. The arrest has provoked controversy, with many social media users criticising Mercy Johnson for allegedly using the police to suppress information rather than seeking redress through the courts.
Verydarkman, known for his commentary on celebrity affairs and social issues, condemned the detention of Eedie Bliss and questioned Mercy Johnson’s actions. He described the arrest as biased and inconsistent with her previous stance on similar cases.
“Dear Mercy Johnson, you can’t fight for the release of Sammy [Regina Daniels’ brother] when he was arrested by Ned Nwoko over defamation, and then turn around to do the same thing with your husband in the name of defamation,” Verydarkman said. He added that her camp had called for Sammy’s release, highlighting what he described as a double standard.
Verydarkman explained that defamation is generally considered a civil matter, which should be resolved through the courts rather than through police intervention. “If you and your husband feel defamed by that girl’s post, please sue her in court. And stop using the police to oppress people,” he said. He also reminded the public that Eedie Bliss had clearly stated her source as Cutie Juls blog, which makes her case different from direct accusations.
Adding a personal note, Verydarkman revealed that the TikTok creator was due to be married on Saturday and threatened to involve his legal team if she was not released promptly. “I heard her wedding is this Saturday. Release her and go to court,” he said.
The arrest of Eedie Bliss has triggered a debate about freedom of expression, online reporting, and the role of law enforcement in handling defamation in Nigeria. Social media users have expressed concern that prominent figures may be using police powers to silence critics rather than allowing civil litigation to run its course.
This is not the first time a high-profile Nigerian figure has been involved in such controversies. In 2023, Regina Daniels’ brother, Sammy, was arrested over alleged defamation by Senator Ned Nwoko. At the time, Mercy Johnson publicly advocated for Sammy’s release, highlighting the inconsistency in her stance now that her family is involved in a similar situation.
The case also highlights the influence of social media in shaping public narratives. TikTok creators and bloggers such as Eedie Bliss and Cutie Juls have large followings, and their content can quickly go viral, attracting attention from both fans and critics. While online platforms have democratized the sharing of news, they have also amplified the spread of unverified or false information, sometimes leading to legal complications.
Mercy Johnson, a veteran Nollywood actress, has not publicly responded to Verydarkman’s criticism. However, her legal team is reportedly handling the matter privately, in line with the petition submitted by her husband. The lack of a public statement has left room for speculation and further debate online.
Critics argue that using police intervention in such cases may set a dangerous precedent, where public figures can suppress criticism or negative coverage through law enforcement rather than engaging in open legal channels. “Social media users need protection, but the law must also protect freedom of expression,” a legal analyst said. “Arresting someone for citing a blog is not consistent with Nigeria’s legal framework for defamation.”
Meanwhile, fans of Eedie Bliss and independent observers have called for her immediate release, pointing out that her content was based on information from a third-party source, not a direct accusation. Many have also expressed sympathy for the content creator given her impending wedding, arguing that the detention could disrupt her personal life and future plans.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the tension between celebrities and social media influencers in Nigeria. While stars like Mercy Johnson have significant influence and public trust, content creators wield power in shaping public opinion through online platforms. The situation raises important questions about accountability, responsible reporting, and the proper channels for addressing alleged defamation.
Verydarkman has vowed to continue advocating for the release of Eedie Bliss, warning that legal action may follow if authorities do not act promptly. His intervention has kept the story in the public eye, ensuring that discussions about fairness, consistency, and freedom of expression continue to unfold.
As the situation develops, Nigerians are watching closely to see how the police and legal system will handle the case. The outcome may have lasting implications for online content creators, celebrities, and the broader debate about defamation, freedom of speech, and the role of law enforcement in civil matters.