By Wisdom Ndisika
ASABA/Nigeria: A long-running online feud between controversial activist Martins Otse, popularly known as Very Dark Man (VDM), and comedian Mr. Jollof exploded into a physical confrontation on Monday aboard a United Nigeria Airlines flight from Asaba to Lagos.
According to a viral video circulating on social media, VDM and Mr. Jollof coincidentally boarded the same commercial flight, leading to a heated altercation that escalated into an exchange of blows before other passengers intervened.
The clash is the latest chapter in a bitter rivalry that began online years ago. In 2024, VDM had accused Mr. Jollof of urging him to divert public donations—allegedly over ₦30 million—into gambling and sports betting. Their feud intensified months later when VDM made unflattering allegations about the comedian’s wife, prompting Mr. Jollof to file a defamation suit.
Amid the back-and-forth, Mr. Jollof publicly vowed in a video that he would “slap VDM” whenever they met. The threat resurfaced on the flight when the activist confronted him over the statement.
Their hostilities worsened earlier this year after Mr. Jollof, a Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor, criticised Nigerian football star Victor Osimhen during a live broadcast. He described Osimhen as “too proud,” accused him of “living a fake life,” and mocked his club as “a fraud club.” He also claimed that Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, whom he compared to Osimhen, could afford luxuries Osimhen rented.
VDM, an outspoken supporter and close ally of Osimhen, fired back online, alleging that the comedian benefited from the footballer’s generosity, including rent, feeding, and family upkeep—claims that further inflamed tensions between the two men.
Eyewitness footage from the flight shows VDM greeting passengers before spotting Mr. Jollof. The activist immediately challenged him over his past threats. What began as a verbal exchange quickly escalated as the comedian reportedly threw the first punch, prompting VDM’s retaliation.
Comedian FunnyBone, who was also on the flight, stepped in to separate the fighters as stunned passengers looked on.
Reactions online have been sharply divided. Members of VDM’s loyal fanbase, known as the Ratels, hailed their leader’s response and mocked Mr. Jollof for allegedly resorting to biting during the altercation. Others condemned the incident, describing it as disgraceful and unbecoming of public figures.
Despite celebratory reactions from some online supporters, many observers have criticised the fight as an embarrassing display of ego and unresolved online hostilities spilling into real life.
