Entertainment
Influencers at war over VeryDarkMan’s arrest

*Deeone backs police as Davido, Seun Kuti, others demand his release
By Francesca Hangeior
Social media has erupted into a storm of opposing views following the arrest of controversial online activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), with Nigerian influencers and celebrities publicly clashing over the issue.
VeryDarkMan, known for his outspoken commentary on social media, was reportedly arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday.
A source within the EFCC confirms that he was arrested on allegations of cyberstalking.
While comedian Deeone has openly defended the police action, others including Davido, Peter Okoye of P-Square, Seun Kuti, and Tunde Ednut have voiced strong disapproval, calling for his immediate release.
Comedian Deeone stirred controversy after he took to social media to support the arrest of VeryDarkMan, stating that the content creator had long crossed the line with his repeated “attacks and unfounded allegations” against public figures. Deeone accused VeryDarkMan of using activism as a cover for clout-chasing and personal vendettas.
In stark contrast, music superstar Davido shared a cryptic message perceived to be in support of VeryDarkMan.
Davido, lending his voice to the cause in a post on X, expressed appreciation for the support VeryDarkMan has received.
He wrote, “Outside all the noise it’s good to see that the good one does actually impacts lives and people actually appreciate! The support I’m seeing for VDM everywhere is encouraging, makes one want to do more for the masses. FREE MY GUY.”
Similarly, Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, also lent his support in a post on Instagram. He posted three photos of VDM with the caption, #FreeVDM #FreeVeryDarkMan @verydarkblackman.
Afrobeat artist Seun Kuti has also called for the release of social critic VeryDarkMan (VDM), alleging that influential religious leaders and certain financial institutions are behind his ordeal. He accused them of using their power to silence voices that challenge the status quo.
“As Federal government is running our country, all these big pastors dey run Nigeria. The people of God are the ones fighting VDM for speaking the truth,” he said.
Popular blogger and influencer Tunde Ednut amplified support for the detained figure by resharing clips of VeryDarkMan’s past advocacy work, portraying him as a necessary, if controversial, voice in Nigeria’s socio-political space.
Meanwhile, skitmaker Saidaboj, who was once publicly criticised by VeryDarkMan, has remained indifferent, neither supporting nor condemning the arrest.
The polarised reactions underscore the widening fault lines within Nigeria’s influencer community, with growing debates over freedom of speech, defamation, and the limits of online activism.
Entertainment
Chris Brown to remain in custody till June 13

American R&B singer Chris Brown, has been remanded in custody until June 13 by a UK court having been charged with assault over a 2023 incident.
Brown was arrested at a hotel in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday morning for allegedly attacking a music producer at a London nightclub two years ago.
He had arrived the UK to kickstart his world tour in three weeks but was detained by Metropolitan Police, who tracked him down at The Lowry Hotel in Salford hours after he arrived in the city on a private jet.
He was arraigned before the Manchester Magistrate court today. District Judge Joanne Hirst told Brown the alleged offence was a matter “too serious” to be dealt with at her court as she sent the case to London’s Southwark Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on June 13.
She refused an application for bail from his lawyers.
She then ordered he be remanded in custody till June 13
Entertainment
Chris Brown Reportedly Nabbed in Manchester

American music star Chris Brown has reportedly been arrested in Manchester, United Kingdom, in connection with a assault that allegedly took place at a nightclub in London in 2023.
According to multiple sources, the 36-year-old rapper and singer was taken into custody during the early hours of Thursday, May 15, 2025, at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester. He was reportedly detained around 2:00 a.m. on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.
The arrest is tied to an incident that occurred on February 19, 2023, at the upscale Tape nightclub located in the Mayfair district of London. During that event, Brown allegedly attacked music producer Abe Diaw, striking him over the head with a bottle before proceeding to punch and kick him multiple times.
The severity of the assault reportedly led to Diaw being hospitalized, and he has since filed a $16 million lawsuit against the Grammy-winning artist, citing physical damages and defamation.
Chris Brown’s Team Yet to Respond
As of the time of this report, Chris Brown’s management and legal representatives have not issued any official statement regarding the arrest or the incident.
The silence from his camp has left fans and the media speculating about the potential legal and professional implications, especially given the timing of the arrest.
The arrest comes just weeks before the launch of Chris Brown’s anticipated world tour, titled “Breezy Bowl XX Stadium World Tour,” which is scheduled to kick off on June 8, 2025, in Amsterdam.
The development raises concerns about whether the artist will be able to honor his international tour dates or face travel restrictions stemming from the legal case.
Background on the Lawsuit
In the wake of the 2023 incident, Abe Diaw filed a multi-million-dollar lawsuit against Brown. In addition to the alleged physical assault, Diaw accuses the singer of attempting to damage his professional reputation, claiming that defamatory statements were made in the aftermath of the altercation.
Legal analysts say that if Brown is formally charged and convicted, he could face serious penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and potential restrictions on international travel.
Public Reactions Mixed
News of the arrest has sparked a flurry of reactions online. While some fans have expressed disappointment, others are calling for due process and urging the public not to rush to judgment.
As developments unfold, all eyes remain on whether Chris Brown’s legal team will break their silence and how the allegations will impact his already controversial public image and upcoming performances.
Entertainment
SAD ! Popular Nollywood actress, Monalisa Stephen is dead

Monalisa Stephen, a popular Nollywood actress and media personality is dead.
She died after a brief illness.
The Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON) Seun Oloketuyi, via his Instagram on Wednesday announced the sad news, disclosing that the controversial actress died yesterday, May 13th after battling low blood sugar and internal bleeding.
He added that the deceased actress’ sister confirmed her passing. Sharing the photo, he wrote: “Brand influencer Monalisa Ayobami Stephen is dead,she died yesterday in Lagos after losing the fight against Low sugar and internal bleeding, Her immediate younger sister confirmed the death of this hardworking and beautiful soul.”
More details shortly…
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