Bobrisky files a ₦1 billion lawsuit against VeryDarkMan, accusing him of defamation and blackmail over an AI-generated audio clip. Learn about the legal demands and impact on Bobrisky's reputation.
Nigerian crossdresser and social media personality, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has initiated legal proceedings against social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan. Bobrisky is seeking ₦1 billion in damages for defamation and blackmail, following the release of an AI-generated audio clip.
The dispute began when VeryDarkMan shared an audio recording online, allegedly of Bobrisky admitting that some officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) extorted ₦15 million from him to drop money laundering charges. Bobrisky has categorically denied the authenticity of the audio, claiming it was artificially generated to tarnish his reputation.
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Bobrisky's Legal Demands
In a formal letter issued by his legal representatives, R.T. Omuvwie & Co., Bobrisky demanded that VeryDarkMan retract the audio and all associated defamatory statements. The letter specifies that Bobrisky wants a “public apology published in two national newspapers” and across all of VeryDarkMan's social media channels. Furthermore, the lawsuit seeks ₦1 billion in damages for the significant harm caused to Bobrisky's public image, brand, and personal life.
Bobrisky's lawyers accuse VeryDarkMan of using Bobrisky's name for personal gain, stating: “You have continued to exploit his name, personality, and social media influence to create media buzz for your personal gains.” They also claim that VeryDarkMan threatened to release additional damaging content unless Bobrisky met certain financial demands.
The letter reads: "It has come to the attention of our client that you recently published an Artificial Intelligence-generated audio call, claiming that same was between an unnamed individual and our client... your act of defamation and blackmail should be withdrawn against our client within 24 hours."
Impact on Bobrisky's Reputation and Well-being
The legal document emphasizes the negative impact on Bobrisky's mental health and public standing. The lawyers stressed that VeryDarkMan's "reckless and unfounded statements" infringed on Bobrisky's privacy, mental health, and fundamental rights. They further highlighted that the accusations of illicit relationships with high-profile figures were baseless: "You are yet to provide proof of the same till date."
Bobrisky's legal team warned that if their demands are not met within 24 hours, they will seek legal redress in court. The letter emphasizes that the “AI-generated audio conversation” is fraudulent and calls for its immediate removal. “Should you fail to take advantage of the alternative dispute resolution mechanism... we shall seek legal redress in a court of competent jurisdiction immediately.”
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