In a dramatic turn of events, renowned Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson has officially withdrawn a criminal defamation case against TikTok content creator Eedie Bliss, leading to the latter's immediate release from police custody. The decision, which came after days of mounting public pressure and a direct ultimatum from social media activist VeryDarkMan, has sparked widespread conversation across Nigeria.
The Timeline: From Arrest to Release
Eedie Bliss regained her freedom on Saturday, January 17, 2026, after Mercy Johnson instructed her legal team to drop all charges. The TikToker had been detained for several days following a video she posted in December 2025. In that controversial clip, Bliss made serious allegations against Mercy Johnson and her husband, Prince Henry Okojie.
She claimed that Prince Okojie had purchased a house for a pregnant mistress and further alleged that Mercy Johnson conspired with the mistress's house help to induce a miscarriage. These claims went viral, triggering her arrest on charges of criminal defamation.
VeryDarkMan's Ultimatum and Public Pressure
The case took a significant public turn when popular social media critic Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, intervened. He publicly called out Mercy Johnson, labeling the use of police detention for a defamation case—which is typically a civil matter—as an act of oppression.
VeryDarkMan issued a stern ultimatum, demanding the immediate release of Eedie Bliss. His post galvanized massive online support, putting the actress under intense scrutiny. Just hours after this ultimatum, Mercy Johnson relented and dropped the case.
Following the release, VeryDarkMan took to his Instagram to thank the actress, writing, "@mercyjohnsonokojie thank you very much my GREATEST OF ALL TIME for dropping the case❤️…..moving on I am buying all d3famation case aga!st mercy Johnson and her family." He also urged his followers, whom he calls "Ratels," to stop targeting the actress's family online.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
The resolution has elicited diverse reactions from netizens, highlighting the complex debate around free speech, accountability, and celebrity power.
Some social media users praised Mercy Johnson for her restraint and ultimate decision to show mercy. User @Danielbiggyy commented, "Mercy Johnson really showed restraint here ? Sometimes letting things go is the real power move. Respect ?." Similarly, @PinkyBeddings noted, "People forget that actions have consequences... Thank you MJ ❤️."
Others, however, criticized the initial arrest and celebrated the power of collective online action. User @SAmuzie3690 reacted, "Power of VDM?she go learn not to say allegendly and still not commit defamation and online harassment or bullying ?." A comment from @WomenRightsOrg pointed out perceived double standards, stating, "If it is another person Mercy Johnson will be doing solidarity videos shouting."
Many warned about the dangers of spreading unverified information. @ItsSoniaNG said, "Seriously what we do sometimes is wrong, you don't just go about saying things you are not sure of and deforming someone's character..."
Context: Mercy Johnson's Public Display Amidst Allegations
The defamation case unfolded against a backdrop of Mercy Johnson publicly celebrating her marriage. Shortly before the arrest, the actress had shared a heartwarming video on social media, playfully hyping her husband Prince Okojie to the tune of "Men Dey" by Anyidons ahead of Christmas celebrations.
This display was viewed by many as a direct response to the circulating infidelity and mistress allegations, aiming to present a united and happy front. The juxtaposition of this cheerful content with the serious legal action against Eedie Bliss contributed to the intense public interest in the case.
The episode underscores the growing influence of social media activists in Nigeria's public discourse and the fine line celebrities walk between protecting their reputation and facing accusations of wielding disproportionate power. While Eedie Bliss is now free, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential legal repercussions of online speech in the digital age.
