A Nigerian-American healthcare specialist, Kelvin Onyiaeze, has threatened to institute a ₦1 billion defamation lawsuit against social media commentator Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, over allegations made in a viral video.

Speaking at a briefing in Abuja, Onyiaeze denied claims by the influencer linking him to land-grabbing activities, describing the accusations as false, malicious, and intended to damage his reputation while inciting public hostility.

The North American-Africa Coalition (NACA), which also addressed the media, defended Onyiaeze, portraying him as a reputable professional with an unblemished record. The group characterised the allegations as a coordinated attempt to tarnish his image and mislead the public, warning that the matter could escalate beyond Nigeria.

According to the coalition, the use of social media to malign professionals—particularly those in the diaspora—poses broader risks. It further expressed concern over attempts to draw international attention by tagging the U.S. State Department in the claims, noting that such actions could misinform diplomatic channels and amplify misinformation globally.

Citing provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, the coalition argued that the content in question may amount to cyberstalking, bullying, and the dissemination of harmful material intended to cause reputational damage.

Onyiaeze also alleged that VeryDarkMan’s actions contravene the same law, stressing that the digital space must not be treated as lawless. He called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the Office of the Attorney General, to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.

He added that his legal team, led by Barrister Abubarka Orumah, has been instructed to commence legal proceedings, including filing a libel and defamation suit against the social media personality.