Controversial Nigerian social media activist and critic VeryDarkMan (VDM), also known as Martins Vincent Otse, has sparked fresh online drama by publicly claiming ownership of the popular phrase “Don’t Play,” alleging that superstar singer Wizkid sampled it without permission or compensation in one of his tracks.
In a viral video circulating on Instagram and other platforms, VeryDarkMan asserted that he officially trademarked the phrase “Don’t Play” (along with his aliases “VeryDarkMan” and “VDM”) after investing significant funds—close to a million Naira—in the registration process. He displayed what appeared to be trademark documentation dated around December 2023 and declared, “Na me get ‘Don’t Play’. Wizkid sample me.” He extended the accusation to include singer Kizz Daniel as well, humorously noting that while people think Wizkid only samples music, he has now “sampled” his words.
VeryDarkMan referenced Wizkid’s 2022 song “Diamond” from the album *More Love, Less Ego*, where the phrase or a similar line appears, claiming this unauthorized use means the Grammy-winning artist owes him royalties or payment. He addressed past accusations from Wizkid’s fanbase (Wizkid FC) that he was “begging” for money, clarifying that his earlier comments stemmed from this alleged sampling issue. In related statements, he has threatened legal action if provoked, suggesting Wizkid could be forced to settle or face court proceedings (though one such video was reportedly deleted shortly after posting).
The claims have ignited mixed reactions across social media, with some users mocking the idea of trademarking a common everyday phrase like “Don’t Play,” questioning its enforceability in music contexts, while others support VeryDarkMan’s bold stand against perceived exploitation of creators’ catchphrases. Critics have called the assertion “daft” or unrealistic, pointing out the generic nature of the expression, while fans of VeryDarkMan praise his unfiltered approach to calling out celebrities.
This latest controversy adds to the ongoing public exchanges between VeryDarkMan and Wizkid’s camp, highlighting tensions around intellectual property, sampling ethics, and celebrity accountability in Nigeria’s entertainment scene.
VeryDarkMan remains a prominent voice in social activism, frequently addressing issues of injustice, corruption, and celebrity influence through his platforms.
I am the owner of the word “don’t play,” so Wizkid and Kizz Daniel sampled me because I trademarked it! 😳🙆🏽♂️
— Viral Willy (@ViralWilly) January 24, 2026
——- Verydarkman Says pic.twitter.com/5U3TfLrxS9
Entertainment Factory!
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