VDM vs Falana, the highly anticipated defamation case, has been moved to another date because of procedural issues.
The court has adjourned the defamation case between VeryDarkMan (VDM) and Femi Falana (SAN). The case, which was scheduled for November 14, 2024, has been pushed to January 23, 2025.
The lawsuit stems from a video VDM posted in September 2024, which mentioned the Falanas. In the video, VDM cited claims made by the cross-dresser Bobrisky. Bobrisky’s audio, which was part of the video, alleged that Falana and his son were allegedly involved in trying to get him a presidential pardon..
The claims were unverified and Femi Falana and his son, Falz consider them harmful to theri reputations. They responded by seeking legal action against VDM, filing a defamation suit.
VDM vs Falana: Court order
On October 14, 2024, the Ikeja High Court ordered VDM to remove the video containing the defamatory content.
The court found that the video was based on unverified information, including Bobrisky’s accusations, which were one-sided. Despite the court’s order to remove the video, the legal process continued to face complications.
When the case came before Justice Matthias Dawodu, there were procedural issues. Femi Falana’s lawyer, Muiz Banire (SAN), informed the court that the originating process was not yet before it. Banire asked for an adjournment to allow his team time to file the necessary administrative processes.
In response, VDM’s lawyer, Marvin Omorogbe, argued that the writ of summons was invalid. Omorogbe claimed that the writ used the same suit number as the preemptive remedy proceedings. He asked the court to strike out the case, arguing that the the court registry mishandled the administrative process.
Justice Dawodu acknowledged the issue with the writ and struck out a motion filed on October 18.
“I will give you a date for hearing,” the judge said, noting the procedural flaws with the writ. The judge then adjourned the case to January 23, 2025, for the hearing of preliminary objections.
The court also adjourned the sister case involving Falz and VDM on the same grounds.
Demand for apology
Falana and his son are seeking justice, asking for an apology and damages for the harm done to their reputations.
The case has become a high-profile issue, with many Nigerians closely following the legal and social media developments.
As the court process continues, the case raises important questions about social media, free speech, and defamation law. The adjournment to January 2025 means the legal battle is far from over, with both sides preparing for the next round.
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