Nigerian social media influencer Very Dark Man (VDM) has reportedly lost his ambassadorial deal with a Chinese firm and access to some of his social media handles amid his ongoing clash with businessman Blord over the iPhone 17 controversy.
Chinese firm ends deal
Reports indicate that the Chinese company dropped VDM, whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, after his recent wave of online controversies drew widespread backlash. The firm is said to have reviewed his posts and public image before ending the contract to protect its reputation.
Feud over iPhone 17
The trouble deepened after VDM accused tech entrepreneur Blord (Linus Williams Ifejirika) of selling refurbished iPhones — allegedly iPhone XR models rebranded as “iPhone 17 Pro.”
The accusation sparked a fierce social media battle between both men and their supporters, as Blord denied the claims, calling them “malicious and false.”
The row reportedly started when an Igbo businessman raised complaints about the authenticity of the device, prompting VDM to make public allegations that quickly went viral across platforms.
Social media suspension and hacking claims
As the feud escalated, VDM’s Instagram account and NGO page were reportedly suspended and hacked, with millions of naira allegedly lost to the breach. He also faces scrutiny from regulatory agencies, including past arrests over online harassment claims.
Industry observers say the combination of controversies — the iPhone 17 saga, clashes with business figures, and unstable online activity — made the influencer too risky for global brand partnerships.
Fallout and reactions
While VDM has yet to issue an official statement about the termination, he maintains that his activism exposes “corruption and deceit” within Nigeria’s elite circles.
Supporters have urged the Chinese company to reconsider, arguing that VDM’s blunt style is what built his authenticity online.
The situation underscores the growing tension between outspoken influencers and corporate image policies in Africa’s digital market.
Read more: Jungle Journalist
Read more: Punch
Discussion about this post