Nigerian crossdresser and social media personality Bobrisky, whose real name is Idris Okuneye, has initiated legal action against fellow influencer VeryDarkMan, seeking ₦1 billion in damages for alleged defamation. The lawsuit stems from a recent viral audio recording published by VeryDarkMan, which Bobrisky claims is an artificial intelligence-generated fabrication designed to misrepresent him and harm his reputation.
The Allegations
In the controversial audio clip, VeryDarkMan alleges that various high-ranking officials, including Deputy Inspectors General of Police and lawmakers, have engaged in sexual relationships with Bobrisky. Bobrisky’s legal representatives have strongly refuted these claims, stating that no evidence has been provided to substantiate such serious allegations.
The legal notice issued by Bobrisky’s team emphasises that VeryDarkMan has consistently exploited Bobrisky’s name and image to create sensational content aimed at boosting his own social media profile. They argue that this behaviour constitutes a deliberate attempt to profit from defaming Bobrisky, despite previous warnings to cease such actions.
Impact on Bobrisky
Bobrisky’s legal team highlights the detrimental effects of these alleged defamatory statements on his mental health and overall well-being. The notice asserts that VeryDarkMan’s reckless claims infringe on Bobrisky’s rights to privacy and freedom of thought. Since the publication of the audio, Bobrisky has reportedly faced immense personal and professional damage, including negative media coverage and potential loss of business opportunities.
Legal Demands
In light of these allegations, Bobrisky’s legal team has laid out several demands:
1. Immediate Retraction: A formal retraction of the defamatory statements and removal of any content linking Bobrisky to the AI-generated recording.
2. Public Apology: A written apology published in two national newspapers and a video apology posted on VeryDarkMan’s social media platforms.
3. Financial Compensation: The payment of ₦1 billion as damages for the harm caused by the defamatory statements.
Bobrisky has given VeryDarkMan a 24-hour deadline to comply with these demands, warning that failure to do so will result in further legal action.
VeryDarkMan’s Response
In response to the allegations, VeryDarkMan has denied any wrongdoing and defended his actions as an attempt to prompt a thorough investigation into serious claims made by Bobrisky. He clarified that the publication of the voice recording was not intended to defame but rather to highlight issues warranting scrutiny.
This ongoing feud between Bobrisky and VeryDarkMan reflects broader tensions within Nigeria’s social media landscape, where influencers often navigate the fine line between entertainment and defamation. As both parties prepare for potential legal battles, observers are keenly watching how this situation unfolds.
By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub
