Former Edo State Chief of Staff and Commissioner-nominee for Oil and Gas, Hon. Gani Audu, has filed a lawsuit against popular social media influencer, VeryDarkMan (VDM), over a video he claims tarnished his reputation.
Audu alleges that the video posted by VDM contained false and damaging statements that misrepresented his character and professional integrity. According to court filings, the former Chief of Staff contends that the content “maliciously portrayed him in a negative light” and caused serious harm to his personal and political image.
Legal representatives for Audu have asked the court to compel VDM to retract the video and issue a public apology, in addition to seeking monetary damages for defamation.
VDM, known for his outspoken commentaries on social and political issues, has not yet responded publicly to the suit.
The case has drawn attention across Edo State, as it involves a high-profile political figure currently awaiting confirmation for a key commissioner role in Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration.
Observers say the lawsuit highlights growing tensions between public officials and online influencers over the boundaries of free speech and accountability on social media.
