Social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman or VDM, has issued a detailed public response after reality television star Phyna accused him of contributing to the breakdown of her relationship with Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo. The exchange has reignited conversations about loyalty, influence, and the fragile alliances that often define Nigeria’s celebrity ecosystem.

Phyna, winner of the Big Brother Naija Level Up season, had recently referred to VDM as “Very Dirty Boy” while alleging that her association with him played a role in damaging her previously cordial relationship with Iyabo Ojo. According to her account, ties with the outspoken influencer became a source of tension that ultimately led to a fallout.

VDM, who is known for his confrontational online style and vocal commentary on celebrity issues, responded with a lengthy statement shared publicly. While he stopped short of trading insults, his message carried a tone of disappointment and self-reflection, as he attempted to set the record straight on the nature of his relationship with Phyna.

VDM’s account of the relationship

According to VDM, his involvement with Phyna was rooted in genuine support rather than personal gain. He said he consistently showed up for her at various stages of her post reality TV career, often without expecting anything in return.

He recounted reposting promotional materials for her movie projects and offering advice on both personal and professional matters. VDM claimed that whenever Phyna reached out, he made himself available, whether the issue involved career direction, paid collaborations, or even sensitive family concerns.

In his words, he described himself as someone who listened more than he spoke, insisting that his role was that of a supporter rather than a beneficiary. He questioned what tangible benefit he ever derived from the relationship, arguing that his actions were driven by goodwill and loyalty rather than opportunism.

According to VDM, it was therefore hurtful to be portrayed as the cause of her strained relationship with Iyabo Ojo, especially given what he described as his consistent backing during moments when public sentiment was less favorable to her.

Background to the Iyabo Ojo connection

Iyabo Ojo, a veteran Nollywood actress and influential public figure, has in recent years become a visible supporter of several younger entertainers, including former reality TV stars. Her relationship with Phyna was seen by fans as part of this broader pattern of mentorship and public solidarity.

While neither Ojo nor Phyna has publicly detailed the specific events that led to their apparent rift, online observers have long speculated about competing loyalties and the impact of controversial associations. In Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where public perception often carries as much weight as talent, alliances can be both powerful and precarious.

VDM’s online persona, which frequently involves calling out public figures and institutions, has earned him both supporters and critics. According to media analysts, association with such a polarizing figure can sometimes complicate relationships with more established industry players who prefer to avoid controversy.

Claims of shifting public support

In his response, VDM went beyond addressing the immediate allegation and reflected on what he described as a broader pattern in Phyna’s public journey. He referenced a past controversy without providing new details, suggesting that a combination of greed and poor decision-making gradually eroded goodwill toward her.

According to him, many individuals who once actively promoted and defended Phyna have since stepped back. He attributed this shift not to betrayal, but to what he described as a natural decline in public attention.

VDM argued that fame is often sustained by consistent engagement and sound judgment, and that when those elements falter, even the most vocal supporters can drift away. While these claims remain his personal interpretation, they echo a recurring theme in discussions about the sustainability of reality TV fame.

Why the issue resonates now

The exchange comes at a time when Nigerian celebrities are increasingly using social media to air grievances that might once have been handled privately. According to reports, such public disputes often attract intense scrutiny, partly because fans feel personally invested in the personalities involved.

Media scholars note that influencers like VDM occupy a unique position. They are not traditional entertainers, yet their reach and ability to shape narratives can rival that of mainstream celebrities. When conflicts arise between influencers and actors or reality TV stars, the resulting discourse often reflects deeper tensions about power, relevance, and reputation in the digital age.

This particular dispute also highlights how third-party associations can strain existing relationships. In an industry where image management is critical, being linked to controversy, even indirectly, can carry consequences.

Reactions and possible implications

As of now, Iyabo Ojo has not issued a public response to Phyna’s claim or VDM’s rebuttal. Her silence has left room for speculation, though industry watchers caution against reading too much into it.

Public reaction online has been mixed. Some social media users sympathized with VDM, arguing that his account suggests he was unfairly blamed. Others questioned whether his outspoken nature may have inadvertently contributed to tensions, even if his intentions were benign.

According to entertainment commentators, how Phyna navigates this moment could influence her future collaborations and public image. Clear communication and reconciliation, whether public or private, may help prevent further erosion of goodwill.

A conciliatory ending

Despite the pointed nature of his response, VDM concluded on a calmer note. He stated that he harbors no ill will toward Phyna and genuinely wishes her success. According to him, his decision to speak was less about attacking her and more about defending his integrity.

The episode serves as a reminder of how quickly narratives can shift in the public eye, and how relationships forged in moments of mutual benefit can unravel under pressure. As fans and observers watch closely, what happens next may depend less on online statements and more on whether the parties involved choose dialogue over distance.