Social media sensation Martins Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), and comedian Freedom Atsepoyi (Mr Jollof) are under investigation by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) following a viral video showing the two exchanging blows during a commercial flight.
The incident first came to public attention when Facebook user Dr Paul Ezikel shared the footage on Monday morning. According to the post, the duo boarded a United Nigerian Airlines flight from Asaba, Delta State, to Lagos, and the confrontation escalated mid-air, alarming fellow passengers and attracting widespread attention online.
VDM and Mr Jollof have a history of online disputes. Their feud intensified after VDM allegedly dragged Mr Jollof’s wife into the argument, claiming she was involved with internet fraud. The long-standing social media tension appears to have spilled over into real life during the flight.
VDM later confirmed the altercation in a Facebook post, boasting that he physically confronted Mr Jollof. In a video statement, he said: “I don chop Jollof father for inside plane. He bite me, man wey de bite.”
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The viral video prompted a swift response from the NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, who requested the public’s assistance in providing details of the incident, posting on X (formerly Twitter):
“If you are kind enough to provide the name of the airline in whose aircraft this incident occurred, and the date, it would help investigations.”
If found guilty, VDM and Mr Jollof could face serious penalties, including fines, suspension of travel privileges, or bans from future flights. In-flight disturbances are treated with utmost seriousness worldwide, as they compromise passenger and crew safety and disrupt airline operations.
Aviation experts note that Nigeria has previously sanctioned passengers involved in fights, harassment, or other unruly behaviour, underlining the country’s strict approach to maintaining safety and discipline in the aviation sector.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation on social media about celebrity behaviour, accountability, and the responsibilities of public figures, especially when disputes spill over into public spaces like airplanes. Many users have called for strict penalties to serve as a deterrent, while others criticized VDM and Mr Jollof for allowing a personal feud to endanger fellow passengers.
For VDM and Mr Jollof, both of whom enjoy massive followings on social media and occupy prominent spaces in Nigeria’s online entertainment scene, the outcome of the NCAA investigation could have significant implications for their public image, social media influence, and even their ability to travel freely.
Authorities and airline officials are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine what prompted the altercation, how it unfolded, and the appropriate regulatory response. Meanwhile, the viral video continues to circulate online, drawing reactions from fans, critics, and aviation observers alike.
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As the story develops, aviation safety advocates emphasize the importance of maintaining decorum on flights, reminding the public that airline regulations exist to protect lives and ensure a safe, comfortable travel experience for everyone.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.